Tech Support UK

Spyware Removal Made Easy

2009-09-25T03:58:00.000-07:00

Are you having trouble with spyware on your computer? It's very frustrating to deal with the computer because it is so slow and just wants to crash all the time. You try to get a task done in 5 minutes when the team actually takes 30 minutes instead of 5 minutes. I think we all know what I mean.

I bet they've been asking yourself how you can easily remove spyware without having a professional will cost $ 100 each time you take it in not so hard, all you need is a good program to make this task easy for you. It will save you time and money. When surfing the Internet, spyware accumulates very quickly so you need to scan your computer at least once a week.

By doing it once a week, it assures itself that your computer is working at top speed. Think about if you ever took a week, all problems and that will cost money. On this day in age that accumulate spyware just by browsing the Internet. Not even have to download anything.

To remove spyware, you first need a program for removing spyware. This makes it easier for you because it makes the search for bad files on your computer for you. This can be done with a click of a button. It will scan your computer for files that match your database. Any database that does is keeps the program up to date with the latest files that tell the program what you are looking for.

Spyware Removal is simple and anyone can do. Keeps your computer running smoothly with you to spend your hard earned money to the professionals?

Getting Ready for Windows 7

2009-09-22T23:06:00.000-07:00

It's time once again one of the great rituals in the IT industry: the implementation of the Windows client operating system. Love or hate Windows, the occasion is a time for comments from all sides of those who say this, like all others, will be the largest version of Windows, however, who can be counted so reliably held that the last major release of Microsoft client operating system in a world that moved to a place where Windows does not matter.

On October 22, Microsoft will formally launch Windows 7. In fact, the product has been completed since its release to manufacturing (RTM) in late July. The time between allows routine activity, furious, which includes obtaining the code to OEMs so they can try on new systems and ready for shipment. Meanwhile, other parts of the work the channel package version for retail, independent software vendors (ISVs) test their applications for compatibility, and solution providers, large account resellers (LARs), distributors and system integrators (SI) get their staff trained and in the message to the official start of weapons.

There's more riding on the release of this time we've had for years. Overall, visitors spent on Windows Vista, leaving Microsoft with a large installed base of Windows XP systems that are long in the tooth. Both in terms of support and revenue outlook, Microsoft, through its partners, has to hit a home run with the version of Windows 7.

One of the biggest problems in the experience of Vista was a set of characteristics that it was unrealistic stuck in time for effective communication between Microsoft, OEMs and independent hardware vendors (IHV). Among the main characteristics slid in or out of Vista, OEMs and IHV complained about the lack of reliable information. Later, these problems manifest themselves as user complaints about driver support for Vista. These lessons appear to have been taken seriously by the president of the Windows Division, Steven Sinofsky, who had taken control early and iron fist on the characteristics of the operating system and calendar, a task certainly easier when the presence Vista DIY, Chairman Bill Gates, left the building into semi-retirement. Another student from the experience of Vista is OEM Corporate Vice President Steve Guggenheimer, who has been in constant communication with the hardware community in the run up to the release of Windows 7.

With the prolonged recession, the IT industry is hoping he can get any boost from Windows 7. As Web applications have become the norm, the days are more likely, when an operating system can only stimulate a massive upgrade cycle based on support for new hardware with faster speeds and feeds. However, the view and the recession of inspiration backlog of older systems rattle away at desks around the world presents a lot of subtle opportunities for Microsoft and its partners.

The recession may be tamped by hype for Windows 7 in comparison with the usual level of a new version of hysteria. Reviews have been generally positive for the feature set as well as Microsoft's implementation deadlines and scope of his ambitions modest techniques for release. Much of the anticipation of the industry for the October launch seems calm and realistic.

With nearly 7 million U.S. jobs deletion of the economy since December 2007, not so many desks to refresh. One of the industries that were more aggressive in jumping to the latest technologies in the last decade, the financial sector is one of the worst affected areas in terms of lost work and enthusiasm for technology. Modest expectations are the order of the day.

During the preparation of OEMs, IHVs and ISVs with accurate and timely information, Microsoft has also worked aggressively to prepare messaging, training and awareness opportunity for its service-oriented partners in the period prior to the release. When the product ships later this month, there will be plenty of support there to help partners address all the opportunities exist. And much of it is quite subtle matter, which shows Microsoft's recognition that goes shouting, "Hey, Windows 7 is here," is not going to sell many systems.

For more information:

Windows Help

MS India to Migrate from Windows Vista to Windows 7

2009-09-18T03:59:00.000-07:00

Microsoft India is soon going to come out with a program and updated for those who use Windows Vista migrate to the latest operation system (OS), Windows 7. While Windows Vista Enterprise customers can upgrade to Windows 7 by paying part of their license fee, the company is planning to offer similar lucrative offers for other users too.

Talking to ET, Microsoft India MD Rajan Anandan said the company has lined up a series of lucrative offers to promote his latest venture, Windows 7. "We are allowing the leaders and managers of IT systems for our customers of the company entirely from Windows 7 before its launch. We will also license the operating system to hundreds of customers even before its official release to create buzz around it, "he said.

The circles claiming Microsoft's strategy for promoting Windows 7 has been quite unique and is the first of its kind. The industry feels the movement has exploded due to two reasons: the widespread criticism that Microsoft faces with Windows Vista and the fact that companies are still going slow in restoring or improving its infrastructure.
Microsoft plans to release Windows 7 October 22 worldwide. It also will launch another new product, Windows Server 2008 R2, on the same date. This product will have virtualization capabilities built into it.

"We also plan to launch a newer version of our mobile operating system, Windows Mobile 6.5, in a couple of months time. Today, Windows Mobile OS is the second largest smartphone in India, along with Nokia," said Mr Anandan.

Mr. Anandan said that Windows Mobile phones, BlackBerry smartphones have exceeded 3:1 in the Indian market for smartphones. Of the 100 million mobile phones sold in India, about 6 million today smartphones, said.

How to Find Printer Installation Software and Other Types of Printer Hardware

2009-09-16T03:27:00.000-07:00

To install a printer for your home computer or for that matter even install the printer on the laptop, you need the hardware and the software. These could be in the form of printer software and hardware and power cord, etc.

Typically, all hardware and software installation is available with the product when you buy it. However, sometimes you may lost the printer driver, etc. and will have to seek other sources. You can usually find the driver that requires the manufacturer's website of the printer. All hardware in common use is available at most hardware stores sell the printer. Another source is the Internet. You can search online for vendors selling products from the printer.

If you are using online to find the installation software and printer hardware is important to choose a reputable seller. First, could do a little research on the online business of the seller, and only then make your choice.

For more detail..

install printer

Slow Internet Connection Repair

2009-09-15T00:09:00.000-07:00

If your Internet connection has slowed - that is, if the time it takes to get to their favorite websites or open your email program and email inside has increased significantly - which is a problem.
What can cause this slowdown?

It may slow your Internet connection is caused by any or all of the following:

* Computer Viruses - programs written to do harm to your computer that spread via email or any other form computers can share data (eg, floppy, Zip, CD or other discs)
* Worms - viruses written with the intention of computer disruption and the ability to spread themselves from one computer to another
* Trojans - programs written to enable a remote user control the computer for any purpose, such as email spam or attack other computers via your computer.
* Malware - usually some combination of all the above.
* Spyware - programs written to track where you go, what you see and / or buy to sell to marketing companies or advertising clients.
* Adware - programs written to continuously blast advertising and / or re-route their requests to the web pages that are different from you requested.
In the spyware / adware malware group alone, we have seen as many as 820 separate items in a single computer (!). Simply installing a certain operating system will give at least three of these, without going anywhere or accessing any other computer file.

For more information..
Computer Repair

Do I need a program to eliminate spyware?

2009-09-03T00:50:00.000-07:00

The need for programs for spyware removal occurs when the team gives some answers. These are symptoms that will ask for a spyware program. One is the slowness of the computer without any rhyme or reason. Another situation is the team intermittent pop-ups and irrelevant ads all the time. In addition, this system maintains the openness of the sites that you may not have heard of before and also to these as their homepage.

You can also check if your system is infected by spyware yourself. When you go to task manager, you can check how many programs are currently running on your computer. And you can get to know if there are unknown programs running on your computer. If there are, then beware that can cause a total stoppage of the computer system. But there is an exit programs as spyware removal.

A user usually do not see outward signs of a spyware that silently got into the system and sending information collected about your computer and computer habits to its source. Spyware often track keystrokes and so steal IDs and passwords and even personal information from your hard drive and send it to their programmers. The only possible indication of spyware on your computer may be a decrease in performance.

Each team needs protection from spywares. Not enough to block spyware from your computer. You need to constantly remove them. There are programs for removing spyware that not only clean your computer or remove the existing spyware, but also protect your computer from spyware in the future.

Effective spyware removal programs can detect and remove spyware from your computer immediately. They also said that while on the Internet, you are constantly monitored and protected from spyware. You can also scan your discharge to ensure that no spywares are infiltrating the system. It can analyze everything that runs on your computer and make sure your system is free from spyware.

Users can reduce the risk of infection spyware downloads that make watching Internet. A spyware program that guarantees you a detailed analysis of system memory, Windows registry and even removable and non removable drives to their search and eradication of spyware if any consumer.

For more on removal programs spyware and its features, log on to www. No Adware. Net and you can get all the solutions you need to get rid of all malware on your computer.

Windows 7 on a Netbook

2009-09-02T03:08:00.000-07:00

As we approach the major release of Microsoft OS, each segment of the industry is gearing up with their 'Windows 7-ready "products and services. I actually started with all the current batch of graphics and now sports monitors "7-ready 'stickers. Netbooks sport too early Windows 7 instead of XP according to Microsoft is going to have a special shortened version of 7 specially designed for Netbooks.

This article is for all Netbook owners who are considering the move to Windows 7, but are skeptical about taking the plunge. Today we will compare the performance of Windows XP and Windows 7 to see if it indeed offers an experience of working properly, or even agrees with the Windows XP. Vista was a bad idea for Netbooks, which is one of the reasons for Windows XP is still prevalent. However, Windows 7 as Vista, has many more features in terms of appearance, ease of use and of course Aero. Now, I know you say you can get all these features in Linux as well, but to be honest the masses are more accustomed to Windows, so the chances of them with Windows 7 is greater. So our preparation Netbook installation and see what results.

For more information..
microsoft windows upgrade
windows help

Improve Windows XP with Power Toys

2009-08-27T04:10:00.000-07:00

If you wish to accomplish Windows XP added claimed application Microsoft’s Powertoys, you have come to the appropriate place. Install some or these entire chargeless tool and soon you will be alive faster and smarter in Windows. Here is how to do it.

What are Powertoys?

Unlike typical PC users, the programmers behind Microsoft Windows accept the ability to tweak the operating system in appealing abundant any way they wish В¬ because they wrote the code that makes it work. So, if there is an aspect of Windows they do not like, they address some new code to accomplish it plan the way they want.

These bits of improvised code are not allotment of Windows because they have not anesthetized through the endless testing processes that Microsoft requires before a commercial appearance of the software. However, Powertoys are the fruits of the after-hours labors of various Microsoft engineers that accept been fabricated available to the public, admitting with a admonition В¬ there is actually no agreement from Microsoft that they will work, and no support if things go wrong.

Now, commonly that endure bit ability put off the amateur PC user but if you hear that Powertoys for Windows XP accept been about for seven years and are used daily by millions of humans after problem, You will accept that really, there is no accident to application Powertoys В¬ they are tried, activated and absolutely safe. And, as we said at the outset, they are free, quick to download and install and can advance Windows in lots of ways.

Bring on the toys

Begin by visiting the Powertoys page of the Microsoft website. At the endure count, there were 14 tool in the Powertoys kit bag, the majority of which accept been about for years and can be advised reliable В-even if Microsoft offers no guarantees.
We are going to apply on the three that we accede to be a lot of advantageous and which are acceptable to accept the broadest address В¬ Tweak UI, Alt-Tab Replacement and Virtual Desktop Manager. Once you have seen how to download, install and analyze these three, the blow will assume straightforward.

For more information:
Microsoft Windows Upgrade

How to run a PC without anti-virus

2009-08-26T04:02:00.000-07:00

From within your operating system, there are tools you can use to advice area off wickedness software, too. All browsers today, for instance, provide some security tools, including anti-phishing filters or lists of Web sites that are accepted carriers of adverse software. Use these appearance -- they will not slow you down. Common sense is your better defense.

First things first: you should accept some kind of antivirus on your PC, abnormally if you surf the Internet or trade files with anyone. There are lots of people, though, who hate antivirus programs -- and with acceptable reason. A lot of them are ability hogs, slowing down your computer; many of them bandy up added throw absolute warnings than accepted ones, slowing down your plan and annoying you in the process. These days, a lot of are busy on an annual basis, acceptation you have to pay up every year in order to keep your antivirus signatures current.

All of that adds up to some appealing aching medicine to accept to absorb to potentially rid your PC of some awful software. Can you possibly just say "no" to antivirus software? The abbreviate acknowledgment is, "yes, you can." But to abide virus and spyware free, you'll charge to accept some precautions -- and stick with them.

An antivirus-free computer should begin and stop with legitimate, clean software. That means eschewing copies of programs that can be downloaded through articles sites or on newsgroups, adopted from accompany through book sharing, or begin on shareware and freeware sites.

Remember that getting after antivirus programs generally means active after on-demand scanning, so a book you download online isn't as simple to analysis for virus as it would be if you had an antivirus programs installed. Still, lots of humans can and do accumulate systems alone with commercial, off-the-shelf applications, and you can, too.

If you are having more than one PC, you can install antivirus software on one while leaving the other machine antivirus software. If the two machines can each other over a network -- home or office -- again you should be able to map the drives of one computer assimilate the one with antivirus software installed or antivirus support and analysis alone files or absolute drives through your network connection.

How to Customize the Windows XP Start Menu

2009-08-25T04:01:00.000-07:00

Step 1
Add programs to the Windows Start menu. "Pin" a shortcut to an application such as Microsoft Excel directly to the Start menu to save time means to avoid slow navigation through submenus. Navigate the Start menu to the program link. Right-click on the shortcut name (Microsoft Excel in this case) and go to select "Pin to Start Menu." Alternately, a shortcut can be added to the Start menu by dragging it from the desktop.

Step 2
Organize shortcuts and Windows Start menu items. Left-click and hold the shortcut that you wish to move. Drag the item to a new location. A black band will mark the insertion point. Release the mouse button if the insertion point is in the desired location.

Step 3
Create a submenu. Right-click on the Start button and select "Properties." Now select the "Start menu" advantage button and click the "Customize..." button. Choose the account to about-face into a submenu from the account on the "Advanced" tab. select the "Display as menu item" option under the account name. Bang "OK" and again "Apply."

You can have more information here as well...

Windows Vista Help

New virus infects programs congenital with Delphi

2009-08-20T20:07:00.000-07:00

Researchers said on Tuesday that they are seeing something abnormal in the malware world--a virus that targets a development environment.

The virus, dubbed Win32.Induc, was accounting to affect applications congenital with Delphi, according to Nick Bilogorskiy, administrator of antivirus researcher at Sonicwall. Delphi is acclimated to address Windows programs, including database applications.

When an infected program is run on a machines active Delphi, the virus infects any software that gets compiled on that machine. The virus spreads the executable book of itself as able-bodied as the source code. It looks for a compiler on the infected machine and re-compiles the source code, inserting its code into any programs compiled on the system.

"This malware just spreads; it doesn't remove files or do anything malicious," he said. "But if you actualize software and you accept this code in it, the software will be blocked by antivirus (technology)."

Developers whose systems are adulterated will canyon the infection on to the programs they are creating, Bilogorskiy said.

Already, two chargeless accoutrement that are included in assertive annual CDs and are a part of the top 100 downloads on some portals--Any TV Chargeless 2.41 and Tidy Favorites 4.1--have been infected, he said. "As abounding as 30 percent of developers who use Delphi accept this," he added.

Sonicwall and an amount of antivirus support vendors accept upgrade their software to block the virus.

Remove PC Antispyware 2010. Description and Removal Instructions

2009-08-18T03:31:00.000-07:00

Antispyware 2010 is addition rogue security program from the family as WinReanimator, PC Security 2009 and Home Antivirus 2010. The artificial appliance is answer through the use of Trojan Braviax. This Trojan virus displays fake security alerts about accessible or allegedly absolute malware infections. The capital ambition of PCAntispyware 2010 is to beset you into purchasing the program. You should uninstall PC Antispyware 2010 from your PC if it is already infected.

PC Antispyware 2010 can be as well answer on various ambiguous websites that accommodate fake online anti-malware scanners or it may be downloading and installed manually. Once active, it will be configured to browse your computer each time you log on into Windows. Of course, you cannot change the way this program works.

The scan results are false and are being shown only to convince you that your computer is seriously infected. To accomplish things worse, PCAntispyware2010 will affectation alarmist alerts about computer threats. These alerts attending like accepted ones, so it ability be difficult to brainstorm the aberration amid them. However, an acclaimed security appliance will not browse your computer after your permission.

What is more, PC_Antispyware 2010 will block antivirus programs to assure itself from getting detected and removed. Likely, you will not be able to download and install added security programs as well. The rogue affairs will hijack Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox and alter you to various ambiguous websites that advance malware.

All things considered, it should be obvious that this appliance is a scam which has to be deleted as soon as possible. Please use the removal guide below to delete PC Antispyware 2010 from your computer manually for free.

Even there are lots of antivirus support available you can go through with it as well.

How to Protect a Computer from Viruses

2009-08-13T03:56:00.000-07:00

1. Be alert about what disks and files you acquire from added people.

2. Don't reuse disks that accept been in added computers, don't download files from afraid sites, and don't accessible e-mail accessories unless you are assured them. Be alert of letters and attachments, even from humans you know, with ambiguous accountable curve and contents, such as 'Check this' or 'See these pics!!!'

3. Obtain antivirus affairs to added cautiously allotment disks, download files from the Internet and accessible e-mail attachments.

4. If your computer gets a virus then. You have to check, your antivirus software manufacturer's Web website and install any virus updates that are available. Then run the software. The software may not be able to annul the virus, but it may be able to analyze it.

5. Seek the Web for advice apropos your specific virus by typing the name of the virus or its associated book into a search engine, followed by the chat 'virus.' For example, 'Melissa virus,' 'BubbleBoy virus,' and so on.

6. Download and install any software patches or added programs that will advice you annihilate the virus. Or chase any instructions you get on deleting the virus manually.
7. Run addition virus browse to accomplish abiding the virus was dealt with properly.

8. Employ added attention if you accept attachment that end in the frequently acclimated extensions .doc, .exe, .com, .xls or .ppt. Never accessible accessories that end in .vbs or .js, back a typical user would never accept a reason to accessible these files.

CA antivirus attacks Windows

2009-08-03T04:35:00.000-07:00

Users of Computer Associates antivirus software were complaining on Thursday after the software mistakenly identified a Windows XP systems file as a virus.

Some customers were concerned that the Windows Service Pack 3 and files from the commercial Cygwin application files deleted when they could not find them. However, CA said the files were intact but quarantined and the file extensions were modified.

CA said it learned on Wednesday that its software had detected the file "Win32/AMalum.ZZQIA" as a false positive and was urging customers to update Signature 6606 to address the situation.

The CA advisory reads: "CA Internet Security Suite users should restore affected files from quarantine using the GUI. CA Threat Manager customers should search local hard drives for files with the extension .AVB and manually rename to their original file extension by removing the appended text on the original file name."

Through its customer support CA also is offering a tool to search for the affected files and restore them to the original extension.

In the meantime, CA customers were griping on the CA forum. "Shame on CA for not being on top of this," one customer wrote. "Sure things happen, I've seen game patches erase hard drives, stuff happens. But it's what you do after that defines the value of your company."

Source: news.zdnet.co.uk

iYogi Re-Defines Technical Support

2009-07-28T23:31:00.000-07:00

Remote managed services are gaining a lot of attraction these days. Companies are looking to outsource the maintenance and monitoring of their IT infrastructure to a third party to improve efficiency and save costs. BizTech2.com caught up with Uday Challu, founding partner and CEO, iYogi, to see what the company has to offer in this space.

As far as Enterprise and SME customers are concerned, which verticals are you focusing on?

Our focus will mostly be on small companies with around five to 100 users and also firms that have multiple small branch offices like travel agencies, retail stores etc.

What kind of support services do you provide to your customers? What is the Green PC service?

iYogi provides the next generation of remote computer support services for consumers and businesses. For consumers, our live 24/7 support extends to technologies we use everyday, including hardware, software applications, devices, peripherals and networking equipment. iYogi also offers a full range of business IT solutions including managed monitoring, managed services, set-up and installation services, and incident-based services.

Green PC Service

With the current state of the global climate and increasing dependency on the computer, iYogi helps PC users reduce their carbon footprint and save money at the same time. iYogi’s Green PC service is the first in the independent computer support industry to offer customers a way to save money, conserve energy and protect the environment by optimising their PC’s efficiency. Consumers and businesses can save up to $200 per year, per desktop, in energy costs with iYogi’s Green PC application. This green application makes the computer environmentally friendly by reducing power consumption by almost 50 percent.

Our Green PC dashboard helps customize power settings and calculate power savings in kWh (kilowatt hour). The Green PC dashboard also gives a status on the reduction of CO2 and how responsible usage will benefit the environment by saving trees. A customised service that increases the energy efficiency of computers, undertakes the below-mentioned three primary initiatives:

- Computer assessment, analysing settings and PC energy use
- Customised efficiency planning geared specifically to the individual’s usage patterns
- Implementing setting changes to maximise the computer’s energy use

What are the technologies that allow you to offer 24/7 support and ensure there is no downtime at the client site?

We have invested significantly in developing a comprehensive monitoring and management tools stack. This enables us to manage and monitor all devices in the office network as well as for branch offices and mobile users. Our tools continuously monitor the customer’s network and notify our NOC (Network Operations Centre) in case of problems. Based on the set of events, tickets are automatically generated and escalated to corresponding teams. Over and above our proactive approach, the customer always has an option to call our 24X7 support line for issues that are not identified via the monitoring tools.

Please throw some light on your proprietary iMantra technology.

iMantra is a CRM system, which is tailor-made to suit the emerging business needs at iYogi. It allows for the formation of individualized customer relationships with the aim of providing personalized services to each subscriber. This tool is built on the latest java technology with a layered architecture that makes it scalable and secure. This architecture provides a seamless work flow and independent channels for various business needs: sales, support, quality and customer service. The entire system can be exposed in the form of secure APIs and Web services, which makes it a re-usable entity.

Your business model is similar to BPOs in India providing technical support to offshore customers. What unique values do you bring to this ecosystem that would help a potential client choose you over a competitor?

iYogi’s business model is different from traditional BPOs. Some key factors that differentiate iYogi include:

- Direct-to-consumer and -small business: iYogi delivers technical support services directly to consumers and small businesses and is a global technical support brand based out of India. Unlike traditional BPOs in India, iYogi does not provide any private label support and/ or work on behalf of large OEMs or software publishers.

- Optimised Processes: iYogi has developed proprietary processes for consistently delivering on a resolution rate of 87 percent, which is among the highest published benchmarks in the support industry, where averages hover in the range of 50 percent.

- Comprehensive technology platform: iYogi’s global delivery platform, iMantra, gets smarter with every customer interaction. It documents every problem, the solution and relevant hardware and software aspects, while capturing each customer’s demographic information and creating a behavioural profile. All of this information is at the fingertips of iYogi’s Global Tech Experts. This set-up combines a knowledge base with a comprehensive set of tools and technology expertise. iYogi offers a range of tools that complement its remote support services for helping customers maintain technology at peak performance levels. iYogi’s products include iYogi Smart PC Scan, iYogi Support Dock, iYogi Green PC and iYogi PC Optimisation.

How do you plan to move up the value chain in the times to come?

The growing use and penetration of the Internet and new Web-based applications has consequently opened the door to threats and vulnerabilities, which affect the system performance and ultimately lead to degrading performance. If the threats are diagnosed early on, the impact on efficiency can be minimized considerably. Currently, a user only realizes that he needs technical support once the damage has occurred and reactive methods of support are used to recover from the loss.

At iYogi, we are developing our capabilities to not only provide support when demanded, but to also monitor, pre-empt and fix threats before they can cause any damage to the computer. This will be possible only by combining technology with processes that are capable of re-defining the way technical support is delivered today.

What is your India strategy?

Technically, we are capable of servicing any geography including India. At this stage, we are looking for the right kind of partners to find access to potential customers and provide them a consolidated, 360-degree solution and services for issues relating to hardware, software, network etc. We aim to launch our India services in the coming six to eight months. Our services will offer clients a one-stop solution for all their business needs.

Source: iYogiblog.com

Computer Repair Service - Get Your Computer Fixed Immediately!

2009-07-21T22:22:00.000-07:00

When you want to have your computer fixed immediately, there is no better alternative than to avail the computer repair service online. You can just sit back and relax at your home while the computer technician works remotely to resolve the issues you are having with your computer.

There are just several advantages in using online computer repair service. Your issues can be readily diagnosed and in an instant you will find what's wrong with your computer. There's a company that even provides you free diagnosis so you can decide whether to have them fix it or you can resolve the issues by yourself.

Another advantage of this kind of service is that they can be cost-efficient when you consider the time you are able to save as well as the comfort and convenience of not having to leave your home. If you have chosen the right repair service company, they can get your issues fixed anywhere between fifteen (15) minutes to four (4) hours depending on how many and serious the issues are. If they need to work on longer, no added cost is charge on your account.

You can also rest assure that even if the company access your computer remotely, they will only do so with your explicit permission and on a highly secured platform. You can even watch how your computer is fixed and can participate in the troubleshooting if you want to. You no longer have to worry where to bring your computer when you need it fixed. A computer repair service is just a click away that can resolve all your computer issues instantaneously.

Source: http://www.liulina.com/articles/20237/Computer-Repair-Service---Get-Your-Computer-Fixed-Immediately!

Tampering with Word's Templates

2009-07-16T00:28:00.000-07:00

Does MS Word have a template that you really like? Well, except for a couple of small things here and there, of course. You know, maybe you always remove the word "confidential" from a footer or there's a graphic you never keep when you use this template.

What's your solution?

Most people I know simply use the template and repeatedly make the same changes each time they use it.

While this plan works, it's quite annoying to make those changes over and over again. I'm all for removing unnecessary repetitive efforts, so let's see what we can do with this particular dilemma... like creating a new template from the old one. A new template that includes our modifications...

We need to get to Word's Templates window. Of course, the process is different based on the version you use so here's the different instructions...

• In older versions of Word I was able to accomplish this by clicking on General Templates in the New Document Task Pane.

• For those of you with Word 2007 you need the Office Button, New choice. You'll find yourself looking at this:

The New Documents dialog window is actually a couple of things in one. First, using the links on the bottom of the left hand list you can locate and download templates from Microsoft Office Online. If it's one of these that you are looking to use then you'll have to get it downloaded prior to proceeding.

The second thing that this dialog box will do is to give you access to your already installed templates. This includes templates that came with Word as well as ones that you've downloaded.

If you want to alter one that came with Word then click Installed Templates in the top left. (You won't switch to a dialog box like the one below, you'll still be in the New Document dialog box but the necessary settings mentioned in the rest of the directions will be there.)

If you want to alter one that you've downloaded to previously downloaded then click My Templates in the top left.

Now everyone, regardless of the version of Word you use needs to locate and select the template that you wish to modify.

But wait! Don't click OK (Create in portions of Word 2007) yet.

Just above the OK (Create) and Cancel buttons, there's the Create New section. (It looks slightly different in Word 2007 if you selected "Installed Templates"... but the same choices are there in the same location.)

Be sure to select Template.

Now, click OK (Create).

You'll be taken back into Word with the template opened and ready for your modifications.

At this point, it's time to make those adjustments to the template that you want to be permanent. Change all the things that will make the template more useful to you.

When you're all done with the changes, you're ready to save it. (File menu / Office Button, Save As choice).

When the Save As dialog box opens, you'll find that Word has already navigated to the location for saving templates and already has the file type set to a Word Template.

All you have to do is name it something useful and click Save.

Later, when you need to use your template again, you should be able to find it under the General Tab in the Templates dialog box for older versions of Word and under My Templates in Word 2007.

How to Enable or Disable the Built in Administrator Account In Vista

2009-07-13T23:18:00.000-07:00

May be you are very much annoyed by UAC but still does not want UAC to be turned off in your user account in windows vista but want to perform some task without user account control elevation prompts.

You can do these tasks by using default build in administrator account but you will have to enable it first.

Follow the procedure below to enable default admin account in Vista

1. Click Start, and then type cmd in the Start Search box.

2. In the search results list, right-click on Command Prompt, and then click Run as Administrator.

3. When you are prompted by User Account Control, click Continue.

4. At the command prompt, type net user administrator /active:yes, and then press ENTER.

5. Type net user administrator <Password>, and then press ENTER.

Note: - Please replace the tag with your passwords which you want to set to administrator account.

6. Type exit, and then press ENTER.

7. Log Off the current user account.

To disable the Administrator account repeat the above procedure again and type the command net user administrator /active: no in step 4

Tip: Default Administrator account in windows vista and Windows XP posses all the rights but they are disabled by default.

If you have any questions regarding windows account or anything to say please leave a comment.

http://www.technixupdate.com/enable-or-disable-the-build-in-administrator-account-in-vista/

The 10 Type of Computer Malware

2009-07-13T22:10:00.000-07:00

The complexity of today's IT environment makes it easy for computer malware to exist, even flourish. Being informed about what's out there is a good first step to avoid problems.
With all the different terms, definitions, and terminology, trying to figure out what's what when it comes to computer malware can be difficult.
To start things off, let's define some key terms that will be used throughout the article:-

 Malware: Malicious software that's specifically developed to infiltrate or cause damage to computer systems without the owners knowing or their permission.

 Malcode: Malicious programming code that's introduced during the development stage of a software application and is commonly referred to as the malware's payload.

 Antimalware: includes any program that combats malware, whether it's real-time protection or detection and removal of existing malware. Antivirus, antispyware applications and malware scanners are examples of antimalware.
One important thing to remember about malware is that like its biological counterpart the number one goal is reproduction. Causing damage to a computer system, destroying data, or stealing sensitive information are all secondary objectives.
Keeping the above definitions in mind, let's take a look at 10 different types of malware.

1: The infamous computer virus

A computer virus is malware that's capable of infecting a computer but has to rely on some other means to propagate. A true virus can only spread from the infected computer to a non-infected computer by attaching to some form of executable code that's passed between the two computers.

For example, a virus could be hidden in a PDF file attached to an e-mail message. Most viruses consist of the following three parts:-

 Replicator: When the host program is activated, so is the virus and the viral malcode's first priority is to propagate.

 Concealer: The computer virus can employ one of several methods to hide from antimalware.

 Payload: The malcode payload of a virus can be purposed to do just about anything, from disabling computer functions to destroying data.

Some examples of computer viruses currently in the wild are W32.Sens.A, W32.Sality.AM, and W32.Dizan.F. Most quality antivirus software will remove computer viruses once the application has the signature file for the virus.

2: The ever popular computer worm

Computer worms are more sophisticated than viruses, being able to replicate without user intervention. If the malware uses networks (Internet) to propagate it's a worm rather than a virus.

The main components of a worm are:-

 Penetration Tool: Malcode that leverages vulnerabilities on the victim computer to gain access.

 Installer: The penetration tool gets the computer worm past the initial defense mechanism. At that point the installer takes over and transfers the main body of malcode to the victim.

 Discovery Tool: Once settled in, the worm uses several different methods to discover other computers on the network, including e-mail addresses, Host lists, and DNS queries.

 Scanner: The worm uses a scanner to determine if any of the newly-found target computers are vulnerable to the exploits available in its penetration tool.

 Payload: Malcode that resides on each victim's computer. Could be anything from a remote access application to a key logger used to capture user names and passwords.
This category of malware is unfortunately the most prolific, starting with the Morris worm in 1988 and continuing today with the Conficker worm. Most computer worms can be removed by using malware scanners such as MBAM or GMER.

3: The unknown backdoor

Backdoors are similar to the remote access programs that many of us use all the time. They're considered malware when installed without permission, which is exactly what an attacker wants to do, by using the following methods:-

 One installation method used is to exploit vulnerabilities on the target computer.

 Another approach is to trick the user into installing the backdoor through social engineering.
Once installed, back doors allow attackers complete remote control of the computer under attack. SubSeven, NetBus, Deep Throat, Back Orifice, and Bionet are backdoors that have gained notoriety. Malware scanners like MBAM and GMER are usually successful at removing backdoors.

4: The secretive Trojan horse

It's difficult to come up with a better definition for Trojan horse malware than Ed Skoudis and Lenny Zelter did in their book Malware: Fighting Malicious Code:
"A Trojan horse is a program that appears to have some useful or benign purpose, but really masks some hidden malicious functionality."
Trojan horse malware cloaks the destructive payload during installation and program execution, preventing antimalware from recognizing the malcode. Some of the concealment techniques include:-

 Rename the malware to resemble files that are normally present.

 Corrupt installed antimalware to not respond when malware is located.

 Polymorphic code is used to alter the malware's signature faster than the defensive software can retrieve new signature files.

Vundo is a prime example; it creates pop up advertising for rogue antispyware programs, degrades system performance, and interferes with Web browsing. Typically, a malware scanner installed on a LiveCD is required to detect and remove it.

5: Adware/Spyware, more than an annoyance

Adware is software that creates pop-up advertisements without the user's permission. Typically the way adware gets installed is by being a component of free software. Besides being very irritating, adware can significantly decrease computer performance.

Spyware is software that collects information from your computer without your knowledge. Free software is notorious for having spyware as a payload, so reading the user agreement is very important. The Sony BMG CD copy protection scandal is probably the most notable example of spyware.
Most quality antispyware program will quickly find unwanted adware/spyware and remove it from the computer. It's also not a bad idea to regularly remove temp files, cookies, and browsing history from the Web browser program as preventative maintenance.

Malware stew

Up until now, all the malware discussed has distinctive characteristics, making each type easy to define. Unfortunately that's not the case with the next categories. Malware developers have figured out how to combine the best features from different types of malware in an attempt to improve their success ratio.
Rootkits are an example of this, integrating a Trojan horse and a backdoor into one package. When used in this combination, an attacker can gain access to a computer remotely and do so without raising any suspicion. Rootkits are one of the more important combined threats, so let's take a deeper look at them.

Rootkits: Uniquely different

Rootkits are in a class all their own, choosing to modify the existing operating system instead of adding software at the application level like most malware. That's significant, because it makes detection by antimalware that much more difficult.
There are several different types of rootkits, but three make up the vast majority of those seen in the wild. They are user-mode, kernel-mode, and firmware rootkits. User-mode and kernel-mode may need some explanation:

 User mode: Code has restricted access to software and hardware resources on the computer. Most of the code running on your computer will execute in user mode. Due to the restricted access, crashes in user mode are recoverable.

 Kernel mode: Code has unrestricted access to all software and hardware resources on the computer. Kernel mode is generally reserved for the most trusted functions of the operating system. Crashes in kernel mode aren't recoverable.

6: User-Mode Root kits

It's now understood that user-mode rootkits run on a computer with the same privileges reserved for administrators. This means that:-

 User-mode rootkits can alter processes, files, system drivers, network ports, and even system services.

 User-mode rootkits remain installed by copying required files to the computer's hard drive, automatically launching with every system boot.

Hacker Defender is one example of a user-mode rootkit and luckily Mark Russinovich's well-known application Rootkit Revealer is able to detect it as well as most other user-mode rootkits.

7: Kernel-mode rootkits

Since rootkits running in user-mode can be found and removed, rootkit designers changed their thinking and developed kernel-mode rootkits:-

 Kernel-mode means the rootkit is installed at the same level as the operating system and rootkit detection software.

 This allows the rootkit to manipulate the operating system to a point where the operating system can no longer be trusted.

Instability is the one downfall of a kernel-mode rootkit, typically leading to unexplained crashes or blue screens. At that point, it might be a good idea to try GMER. It's one of a few trusted rootkit removal tools that has a chance against kernel-mode rootkits like Rustock.

8: Firmware rootkits

Firmware rootkits are the next step up in sophistication, with rootkit developers figuring out how to store rootkit malcode in firmware. The altered firmware could be anything from microprocessor code to PCI expansion card firmware.
This means that:

 When the computer is shut down the rootkit writes the current malcode to the specified firmware.

 Restart the computer and the rootkit reinstalls itself.
Even if a removal program finds and eliminates the firmware rootkit, the next time the computer starts, the firmware rootkit is right back in business.

9: Malicious mobile code

In relative anonymity, malicious mobile code is fast becoming the most effective way to get malware installed on a computer. First, let's define mobile code as software that's:

 Obtained from remote servers.

 Transferred across a network.

 Downloaded and executed on a local system.

Examples of mobile code include JavaScript, VBScript, ActiveX controls, and Flash animations. The primary idea behind mobile code is active content, which is easy to recognize. It's the dynamic page content that makes Web browsing an interactive experience.

What makes mobile code malicious? Installing it without the owner's permission or misleading the user as to what the software does. To make matters worse, it's usually the first step of a combined attack, similar to the penetration tool used by trojan horse malware. After which the attacker can install additional malware.
The best way to combat malicious mobile code is to make sure that the operating system and all ancillary software is up to date.

10: Blended threat
Malware is considered a blended threat when it seeks to maximize damage and propagate efficiently by combining several pieces of single-intentioned malcode. That said, blended threats deserve special mention as security experts grudgingly admit they're the best at what they do.

A blended threat typically includes the following abilities:

 Exploit several known vulnerabilities or even create vulnerabilities.

 Incorporate alternate methods for replicating.

 Automate code execution, which eliminates user interaction.

Blended threat malware for example may send an HTML e-mail message containing an embedded Trojan horse along with a PDF attachment containing a different type of Trojan horse. Some of the more famous blended threats are Nimda, CodeRed, and Bugbear. Removing blended threat malware from a computer may take several different pieces of antimalware as well as using malware scanners installed on a LiveCD.

Final thoughts
Malware: is it even possible to reduce the harmful effect it causes? Here are a few final thoughts on that subject:

 Malware isn't going away any time soon. Especially when it became evident that money, lots of money can be made from its use.

 Since all antimalware applications are reactionary, they are destined to fail.

 Developers who create operating system and application software need to show zero tolerance for software vulnerabilities.

 Everyone who uses computers needs to take more ownership in learning how to react to the ever-changing malware environment in.

 It cannot be stressed enough, please make sure to keep operating system and application software up to date.

10 Coolest Features of Windows 2k8 Server

2009-07-13T20:28:00.000-07:00

Windows Server 2008 Logo

No need to call the homicide squad after you take a look at Windows Server 2008: You won't find any killer features in this release. But that's not to say there's nothing to get excited about. There's a great deal that's new, and depending on the set up of your organization, it's almost certain you'll find some or all of it extremely valuable.

Any ranking is bound to be subjective, and bearing that in mind, here are what we believe to be the 10 most interesting new features in Windows Server 2008.

1. Virtualization

Although it will not be available with the initial launch of Server 2008, Microsoft's Hyper-V hypervisor-based virtualization technology promises to be a star attraction of Server 2008 for many organizations.

Although some 75 percent of large businesses have started using virtualization, only an estimated 10 percent of servers out are running virtual machines. This means the market is still immature. For Windows shops, virtualization using Server 2008 will be a relatively low-cost and low-risk way to dip a toe in the water.

At the moment, Hyper-V lacks the virtualized infrastructure support virtualization market leader VMware can provide. Roy Illsley, senior research analyst at U.K.-based Butler Group, noted that Microsoft is not as far behind as many people seem to think, however. "Don't forget Microsoft's System Center, which is a fully integrated management suite and which includes VM Manager. Obviously it only works in a Wintel environment, but if you have Server 2008 and System Center, you have a pretty compelling proposition.

"What Microsoft is doing by embedding virtualization technology in Server 2008 is a bit like embedding Internet Explorer into Windows," said Illsley. "This is an obvious attempt to get a foothold into the virtualization market."
At launch, Microsoft is unlikely to have a similar product to VMware's highly popular VMotion (which enables administrators to move virtual machines from one physical server to another while they are running), but such a product is bound to available soon after.

2. Server Core

Many server administrators, especially those used to working in a Linux environment, instinctively dislike having to install a large, feature-packed operating system to run a particular specialized server. Server 2008 offers a Server Core installation, which provides the minimum installation required to carry out a specific server role, such as for a DHCP, DNS or print server. From a security standpoint, this is attractive. Fewer applications and services on the sever make for a smaller attack surface. In theory, there should also be less maintenance and management with fewer patches to install, and the whole server could take up as little as 3Gb of disk space according to Microsoft. This comes at a price — there's no upgrade path back to a "normal" version of Server 2008 short of a reinstall. In fact there is no GUI at all — everything is done from the command line.

3. IIS

IIS 7, the Web server bundled with Server 2008, is a big upgrade from the previous version. "There are significant changes in terms of security and the overall implementation which make this version very attractive," said Barb Goldworm, president and chief analyst at Boulder, Colorado-based Focus Consulting. One new feature getting a lot of attention is the ability to delegate administration of servers (and sites) to site admins while restricting their privileges.

4. Role-Based Installation

Role-based installation is a less extreme version of Server Core. Although it was included in 2003, it is far more comprehensive in this version. The concept is that rather than configuring a full server install for a particular role by uninstalling unnecessary components (and installing needed extras), you simply specify the role the server is to play, and Windows will install what's necessary — nothing more. This makes it easy for anyone to provision a particular server without increasing the attack surface by including unwanted components that will not do anything except present a security risk.

5. Read Only Domain Controllers (RODC)

It's hardly news that branch offices often lack skilled IT staff to administer their servers, but they also face another, less talked about problem. While corporate data centers are often physically secured, servers at branch offices rarely have the same physical security protecting them. This makes them a convenient launch pad for attacks back to the main corporate servers. RODC provides a way to make an Active Directory database read-only. Thus, any mischief carried out at the branch office cannot propagate its way back to poison the Active Directory system as a whole. It also reduces traffic on WAN links.

6. Enhanced Terminal Services

Terminal services has been beefed up in Server 2008 in a number of ways. TS RemoteApp enables remote users to access a centralized application (rather than an entire desktop) that appears to be running on the local computer's hard drive. These apps can be accessed via a Web portal or directly by double-clicking on a correctly configured icon on the local machine. TS Gateway secures sessions, which are then tunnelled over https, so users don't need to use a VPN to use Remote Applications Securely over the Internet. Local printing has also been made significantly easier.

7. Network Access Protection

Microsoft's system for ensuring that clients connecting to Server 2008 are patched, running a firewall and in compliance with corporate security policies — and that those that are not can be remediated — is useful. However, similar functionality has been and remains available from third parties.

8. Bitlocker

System drive encryption can be a sensible security measure for servers located in remote branch offices or anywhere where the physical security of the server is sub-optimal. Bitlocker encryption protects data if the server is physically removed or booted from removable media into a different operating system that might otherwise give an intruder access to data which is protected in a Windows environment. Again, similar functionality is available from third-party vendors.

9. Windows PowerShell

Microsoft's new(ish) command line shell and scripting language has proved popular with some server administrators, especially those used to working in Linux environments. Included in Server 2008, PowerShell can make some jobs quicker and easier to perform than going through the GUI. Although it might seem like a step backward in terms of user friendly operation, it's one of those features that once you've gotten used to it, you'll never want to give up.

10. Better security

We've already mentioned various security features built into Server 2008, such as the ability to reduce attack surfaces by running minimal installations, and specific features like BitLocker and NAP. Numerous other little touches make Server 2008 more secure than its predecessors. An example is Address Space Load Randomization — a feature also present in Vista — which makes it more difficult for attackers to carry out buffer overflow attacks on a system by changing the location of various system services each time a system is run. Since many attacks rely on the ability to call particular services by jumping to particular locations, address space randomization can make these attacks much less likely to succeed.
It's clear that with Server 2008 Microsoft is treading the familiar path of adding features to the operating system that third parties have previously been providing as separate products. As far as the core server product is concerned, much is new. Just because some technologies have been available elsewhere doesn't mean they've actually been implemented. Having them as part of the operating system can be very convenient, indeed.

If you're running Server 2003 then, now is the time to start making plans to test Server 2008 — you're almost bound to find something you like. Whether you decide to implement it, and when, is up to you.

Speedy USB 3.0 will be in PCs by Christmas

2009-07-12T22:19:00.000-07:00

New standard will blow away slowcoach USB 2.0

USB 3.0 will, rather surprisingly, be with us later this year.

We knew the super-fast next-generation USB standard would be coming along sometime in the future, but we hadn't guessed that it might be just a few weeks away.

According to the New York Times, the hardware needed to mass-produce USB 3.0 chipsets is ready and production will begin in earnest in as little as two months.
September, say sources Citing sources in Japan, the NYT says NEC will be pumping out SuperSpeed USB 3.0 interfaces from September and that PCs with the new connector will be available before the end of the year.

That promises data transfers of up to 5Gbps, which will be more than enough to handle streaming high-definition video, and to sound a death knell for good old USB 2.0.

Wrong Place Now What?

2009-07-09T23:20:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but I tend to go through my e-mail messages and then "sort" them. You know, delete it or move it to some folder or another.

When moving messages I simply drag and drop them into their new location using the folder list.

The problem is that I inevitably drop some into the wrong location.
Usually I realize it right away but still have to navigate to a different folder, actually find the message(s) and then put them where they belong - or do I?

It turns out that I don't actually have to do all of that in MS Outlook.
Unknown to many people, the Undo command works on more than just editing changes.
Next time you find that you've dropped in the wrong location simply use Undo. You can use the Undo button; the Edit menu Undo or, my personal favorite, Ctrl + Z.
Whatever way you do your undo, you'll find that the messages you just moved are back where you got them from, just like the whole thing never happened.

Windows Registry is Slowing You Down?

2009-07-08T20:15:00.000-07:00

Here I would like to explain about Windows Registry is Slowing your Computer down, so what are the reason and how we can take care of about this to resolve our problem and make system faster.

All we know about registry that Microsoft operating systems (including Windows XP) all have a registry. It's the mothership of all your important system and program files. Whenever you do anything on your computer: - 1. Surf or download, 2. Install or uninstall any programs and software, you make changes in your computer’s Registry.

System information is stored in the registry. Eventually, the registry will be maximized to a point where it has a difficult time functioning properly. And then your PC will start behaving strangely, with a frustrating slowness as the major symptom.

Ok, so all we need when our computer starts acting like a turtle is to clean the registry?

Nop.

It is true that oversized registry will cause your PC to work slowly, BUT when your PC is slow it doesn't mean necessarily that it is because of a registry problem. Maybe your registry is fine and there is a different cause to the slowness? Maybe your registry is too big and need to be clean, but it is not enough and there are other problems slowing down your computer.

What to do?

You can choose to do one of the following:-

1. Call a technician to examine your PC and decide what is the cause of the slowness, if he will find out it is because of the registry he will clean it, and your PC will work much faster.
Main disadvantage: might be expansive.

2. Use one of the registry cleaner software such as:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=PBDdR&m=1kpvZdymlAyus8&b=YJZ2W82S8Fi4cmZbuxHDfA . Main disadvantage: If the cause of your slow PC is not the registry, you gained nothing.

3. Use our solution (found here: www.revivepc.net / or for more assistance you can reach at this destination, http://www.iyogi.co.uk), it will clean your registry but will do much more and fix all other problems that are causing your PC to work slow. Main disadvantage*: will work only for windows XP English/Italian/French/Hebrew & Spanish editions.

Monitor go Blank After 15 Minutes if not in use why.

2009-07-07T22:41:00.000-07:00

Question: -

Why does my Monitor go black after about 15 minutes of not using the computer?

Answer:-

Windows has a Power Management setting that will shut your monitor off after a specified amount of time. If you don't like when it's shutting the monitor off, you can change it by doing the following: -

In Windows XP: -

To perform or change the power settings follow the steps as given below:-

1. Click on the START button> then Control Panel , then go to Performance and Maintenance link). Then, open the Power Management icon.

2. Look for the "Turn off Monitor" drop box. Select the amount of time you want the computer to wait before shutting off the monitor, or tell it not to shut the monitor off at all.

10 stress-busting tips for managing Outlook email

2009-07-07T21:46:00.000-07:00

It is very difficult to deal with email or by using email. since if your Inbox is overflowing, than at that time or situation you can easily miss your some of the very important messages, while responding to lower-priority mail can become a time sink that you could do without.

Taming the stream of incoming mail and reducing the amount of time you spend dealing with it is essential if you're to remain productive. These tips should help you keep on top of your mail, and most work with all versions of Outlook.

1. Get Rid of Clutter

Avoid using the inbox to store all of your emails. It makes finding specific emails difficult without using a search tool, and important mail can easily be overlooked. Instead, set up some subfolders to sort and store email. Make a folder called Action to temporarily house mails that require you to carry out a task. The folder then becomes a kind of to-do list, and you can remove emails from it as you deal with them.

2. Filing Folders

Sometimes an email comes in that requires some action from you, but you have to wait for someone else to provide more information or another response before you can do anything. Create a folder called 'Waiting for' to hold these messages. All other emails will generally be useful for information or archive purposes.
Put these messages into a general storage folder that you can then subdivide into subjects, clients or whatever system works best for you. Your inbox will then only contain mail that has just arrived and hasn't yet been sorted.
The aim is to always have no mail in your inbox because everything has been dealt with or filed. This is known as 'Inbox Zero' in geek circles. You won't always achieve it, but it's a great feeling when you do.

3. Use Categories

Inevitably there will be emails that fall under a range of subjects. In Outlook 2007 you can use categories to tag these with their different groupings. To create a new colour category, click the 'Categorise' button on the toolbar followed by 'All Categories' and 'New'.
Now enter the name of the category you want to create and select its colour. You can assign more than one category to each email.

4. Show Categories

You can show the Categories column in Outlook 2007 by choosing 'View | Current View | Customise Current View | Fields'. Now select 'Categories' followed by 'Add'. You should be able to see the categories that each email is assigned to by the colour shown in this column.

5. Flag Emails

To quickly draw attention to an email, add a flag. In a message list, right-click the email that you want to flag, choose 'Follow Up' and select a flag. You can flag an open email by choosing 'Message | Options | Follow Up' and picking a flag.
When you've dealt with the flagged message, remove the flag by right-clicking on it in the message list and choosing 'Clear flag'.

6. Flag Reminders

When adding flags, you can set general reminders for taking action (today, tomorrow, within the week), but you can also set specific dates and times for your reminder to appear. Select a flagged item and choose 'Follow Up' on the toolbar to open the Follow Up menu. Alternatively, select 'Follow Up' from the right-click menu if using an earlier version of Outlook. Click 'Add Reminder' and then enter the date and time you require.

7. Automate your Filing

Some emails can be filed without you needing to read them first. For example, marketing information and mailing lists are fairly easy to identify as they arrive. Ideally you want to find this stuff when you have time to read it and not be distracted by it as it arrives.
To avoid this, set up a folder for these messages and create a message rule that will automatically move them into this folder as they arrive in your inbox.

8. Sender Rules

You can create a rule based on a message that has already arrived. Right-click the message that you want to use, choose 'Create Rule' and opt to base it on the sender of the message. Tick 'Move the item to folder', select the folder that you want and complete the wizard.

9. Create Templates

Rules can take a while to set up and perfect. Save some time by copying similar rules to use as templates. Select 'Tools | Rules and Alerts', highlight the rule that you want to copy, click 'Copy', choose the inbox and click 'OK'. You can now make any changes that you want.

10. Search Today's Mail

Creating a Search Folder is an exellent way to quickly search today's mail. Choose 'File | New | Search Folder', select 'Create a custom search folder' and click 'Choose'. Call the folder 'Today's mail' and click 'Criteria'. Under the Messages tab, select 'received' and 'today' on the Time dropdown menu before clicking OK.

Source:- http://www.techradar.com/news/software/applications/10-stress-busting-tips-for-managing-outlook-email-613137

Tech Support UK: Burn Your CDs - The Easy Way!

2009-07-06T02:47:00.000-07:00

Tech Support UK: Burn Your CDs - The Easy Way!

Burn Your CDs - The Easy Way!

2009-07-06T02:40:00.000-07:00

Now you can take the burn out of CD burning!

This has got to be one of the easiest CD burning programs we have ever come across ~ and the price, unbelievable! You can quickly and easily safeguard, organize, and share all of your files with this easy-to-use CD burning solution! Keep reading, you won't be disappointed...

The easy to use step-by-step program makes CD burning simple! Whether you're storing data files, organizing digital photos, creating a video library, or enhancing your music collection, NTI CD-Maker makes burning your own CDs as easy as saving a file.

Even those with little to no computer experience will be ripping and burning in no time! Want to know why? This program is so smart, it automatically selects the correct writing method for fast, reliable, and accurate CD duplication ~ it's almost impossible to make an error!

Checkout these great features: -

• CD Copy - Make an identical copy from a CD disc to a CD-R disc with drag-and-drop ease.

• Data CD - Efficiently safeguard your data by backing up important files to CD.

• Audio CD - Rip and burn your own audio CDs. Great to give as gifts ~ terrific for special occasions!

• Mixed Mode CD - Create a combination of CD-ROM and audio CD formats on the same disc.

• Smart Decision Technology - Automatically sets the correct writing method for fast, reliable, accurate CD duplication!

• Test & Write Mode - Automatically find the maximum sustainable writing speed.

• BurnProof/JustLink/Seamless Link Support - Ensures reliable burning every time.

• Overburn Support - Record extra tracks or data on your CD.

• Advanced Caching - Automatically reduces data buffer under-run errors for high-speed drives.

• Long File Names - Supports 128-character file names - the longest available.

Ways of DRM Removal

2009-06-29T03:31:00.000-07:00

Category: Audio , Music

How To Remove DRM from Audio Files

If you have purchase have purchased music from iTunes and you want to play those tunes on a non-iPod music player. Apple says no. Maybe you've become a Mac or Linux user, and you need your WMA (Windows Audio) files in a standard, portable format. Microsoft says no. How about making backup copies of your music library? Or burning your favorite tunes to a CD so you can listen in the car? The RIAA says no.

But that doesn't mean you can't.

Yes, you CAN free your iTunes music from the shackles of DRM. Yes, you CAN move your Windows WMA audio files to other operating system platforms. Yes, you CAN make a backup copy of your music library to protect yourself from hard drive failure. And yes, you CAN listen to your music without a computer, on that expensive stereo system in the living room, in your car or with a non-iPod player.
If you're frustrated by the DRM protection roadblock, check out my list of audio converters below. These programs will help you convert iTunes AAC and M4A formats to MP3, or just about any other sound format you need. You can also use them to convert protected WMA files to MP3. Some of these tools are free, and some require payment. Generally, the paid-for software is a little easier to install and use, so depending on your geek level, choose the one that works best for you.

The Big List of Audio Conversion Software
• myFairTunes - The myFairTunes software captures the audio stream of a song while it's being played in iTunes, and outputs it to an MP3 file. In non-technical terms, you could say that myFairTunes "listens" to the song while it's being played on your computer, and converts it to another format. (FREE)
• QTFairUse - Like myFairTunes, QTFairUse captures the audio stream of a song while it's being played in iTunes, and outputs it to an MP3 file. (FREE)
• Audacity - Audacity is a general purpose audio program that allows users to record and edit audio. It works on Windows, Mac OSX and GNU/Linux, as well as a couple other operating systems. If you start Audacity and press the Record button, it will capture the song being played by iTunes. Add the LAME Encoder (also on the Audacity download page) and you'll be able to export from Audacity to MP3 files. (FREE)
• Audio Hijack - Record live audio from software applications and audio devices. Similar to Audacity, but for Mac OS X only. (US $32.00)
• TuneBite - The purpose of the TuneBite converter is to remove the copy protection from music and audio files, so that it can be converted into a more compatible format for your audio device. This software works with over 50 different audio and video files including: WMA, M4A, M4B, AAC, WAV, FLA, and AIFF. (US $24.90)
• Sound Taxi - Sound Taxi is a program that is specifically designed for converting DRM files like WMA, AAC and M4P to MP3 files. It works with Windows XP, Windows 2003 and Windows Vista. (US $14.90)
• NoteBurner - NoteBurner is designed to convert DRM M4P, WMA, M4A and M4B files, as well as regular audio files, into WAV or MP3 files. NoteBurner creates a virtual CD drive to simulate the ripping and burning process so you can convert iTunes M4P files to MP3. (US $29.00)
• MAC M4P Converter - is a tool to convert M4P to MP3 on Mac OS X systems. It will convert DRM protected or unprotected M4P music files (as well as audio books) to plain MP3 files. Uses a "virtual CD drive" technique similar to NoteBurner. (US $35.00)
• ShareDRMusic - is designed to convert any DRM protected music files (such as M4P, M4A, WMA, M4B), or unprotected music files (such as WAV, MP3, WMA) and audio books to MP3, WMA or WAV files. (US $35.00)
• NoteCable - NoteCable is similar to some of the other audio converters. It takes protected DRM files and transfers them to a virtual recording platform and then you convert these files to unprotected MP3s. (US $34.95)
• ImTOO Video to Audio Converter - ImToo Video to Audio Converter was designed to extract audio files from video files. It is compatible with the following file formats: DVD, AVI, VCD, GIF, WMA, Flash, WAV, MP4, M4A, ADE, AAC and CUE. (US $25.00)
• Applied Technologies Replay Converter - This is a high powered audio/video converter software platform that allows you to record and convert a variety of audio/video formats like AVI, WMV and MP4. (US $29.95)
• WMA Convert Platinum - This software program has been designed to un-protect audio and movie files so that they can be converted to other formats. It works with a large selection of protected files produced by companies like iTunes, Wal-Mart, Music Match, Rhapsody, Audible and Cingular mMode. (US $14.99)
• Koyote Software's Free MP3 WMA Converter - This is a free program that allows you to copy, record and burn audio files and data files. It also supports
multi-session recordings and burning. This program is a VERY capable audio converter, but does not have DRM removal capability. (FREE)
• Easy WMA - This conversion software allows you to convert WMV audio, WMA, Ogg Vorbis and AIF files to WAV, AIFF, M4A and MP3 files. This software also offers drag and drop compiling, batch processing, iTunes conversion and ID3 tags. Does not have DRM removal capability. (US $10.00)
• SoX http://sox.sourceforge.net - The swiss army knife of sound processing programs. This software allows you to record and convert audio files to different formats. It supports a huge list of file formats including, but not limited to: RAW, AIFF, AU, ARV, CD-R, MP3, IRCAM, DOS, FLAC, VOX. For Windows and Linux/unix systems. Does not have DRM removal capability. (FREE).

• TuneCab - Appears to be a clone of SoundTaxi.
• TuneRaft - Appears to be another clone of SoundTaxi.
• Melody Can - Appears to be yet another clone of SoundTaxi.

Do you have another DRM remover tool that works well for you? Post a comment below

Source:- http://askbobrankin.com/drm_removal.html

Missing Emails Services : Isn't it??

2009-06-23T22:15:00.000-07:00

Category: Email

This is the good news for internet users that whenever some of our email missing and which is very important for us then what is the exact way to know about missing email. So below mentioned about missing emails.

Some service providers place restrictions on how they deliver email to you. Some of these restrictions could prevent you from receiving mail that you have requested, or it may be automatically filtered into a Junk, Bulk or Spam folder. Check those folders first if you're not getting an email or newsletter you signed up for. If it shows up there, and your email program has a "Not Spam" button, click it!

If messages from that sender continue to be filtered into a junk mail folder, look further into your email options to create a filter that will automatically direct those messages into a special folder you create.

Your Address Book: The Anti Anti Spam Defense

To further increase the chances that the emails you want will arrive in your inbox, you should also add the From: address of the sender to your address book or contact list. For the TOURBUS mailing list, there are TWO senders, so you should add both "bob@TOURBUS.COM" and "crispen@NETSQUIRREL.COM" to your address book. Some of the instructions for using the address book with some popular email services are as given below.

Outlook Express

Right-click the name or address in the "From" column of your Inbox. Click on "Add to Address Book".

Microsoft Outlook

For Microsoft outlook Double click the name or address in the "From" column of your Inbox. This will maximize the message. Right click on the sender name or address on the upper left corner of the message. Click "Add to Outlook Contacts", and then click "OK".

Thunderbird

Double click the name or address in the "Sender" column of your Inbox. This will open the message in a new window. Right click on the sender name or address on the upper left corner of the message. Click "Add to Address Book", then click "OK".

AOL

While viewing a message from the sender, maximize your window and locate the "Address to Address book" icon, located at the far right of your message window. Click on this icon, then Click "Save".

Hotmail/MSN

While viewing a message from the sender, click "Save Address" on the far right side of the toolbar, then follow the instructions provided to add to the address book.

Yahoo!

While viewing a message from the sender, click the "Add to Address Book" icon. The sender's e-mail address will appear in a text box. Click "Add to Address Book" again.

Earthlink

While viewing a message from the sender, select "Add Sender". The "Add to Address Book" pop-up appears with the sender's name and e-mail address. Click "Yes".

Blacklisted?

It's not uncommon for service providers to erroneously place a newsletter sender on a blacklist, based on knee-jerk complaints from inconsiderate people who press the "Report Spam" button instead of unsubscribing. If you've tried everything else in this article and you're still not getting all your emails, contact your ISP and let them know. They may be able to add the publisher to a list of approved senders (whitelist) or work with the blacklist maintainer to get the erroneous entry removed.

Source:- http://askbobrankin.com/missing_emails.html

RPC Server Unavailable

2009-06-22T21:43:00.000-07:00

This is the one of the main and common problem that some time Windows would say "RPC Server is Unavailable" when starting up, and also later when trying to print or install new software. Some other things just didn't work, like copy and pasting text, and right-click menus. Here's how I solved the problem and got the RPC server running again...

What's a Remote Procedure Call (RPC)?
A little background... RPC is an acronym for Remote Procedure Call, and typically is used to allow a program running on one computer to access services on another networked computer. I say "typically" because Microsoft added some of it's own extensions to the standard RPC protocol and deeply intertwined RPC into the inter-process communication of Windows operating system components. So if RPC stops working, lots of other Windows features will fail as well.
In this case, I didn't know if the "RPC Server Unavailable" problem was caused by the malware we had removed, by one of the anti-virus or anti-spyware tools, or something else. No matter, it was broken and my friend wanted me to fix it. I did a bit of poking around on the Web, and found lots of information on RPC. There are some viruses and spyware that try to exploit an RPC server software bug, but we had already applied the fix for that. Another article said that if the RPC server is not running, one can go to Control Panel / Performance and Maintenance / Administrative Tools / Services then double click on the Remote Procedure Call entry and either start the server, or set it to start automatically on system startup.
I tried that, but the Remote Procedure Call entry did not appear in the Services list. There was an entry for Remote Procedure Call Locator, but that's a different service, not related to this problem. When I looked on another computer that was working properly, the RPC entry did show up in the Services list. So I clicked on Properties and learned that the name Windows assigned to this service was RPCSS. This bit of information proved to be an important clue that helped me solve the "RPC Server Unavailable" problem.

Blame the Registry
I figured that since RPC was missing from the Services list, it probably had something to do with the Windows Registry. The Windows Registry is a hideously complex ball of string, rubber bands, duct tape and bailing wire that's supposed to keep track of Windows system settings, your hardware configuration, user preferences, file associations, system policies, and installed software. It was supposed to be an improvement on the collection of simple text-based INI files that stored Windows configuration settings, but too many pocket protectors got involved in the design and the result was an over-engineered, over-complicated mess that makes Windows much more fragile and harder for users to maintain. I've seen so many cases where the Windows Registry got mucked up by malware or a system crash, that I decided to blame the Registry and ask questions later.
Since I had one working machine and one broken machine, I thought that I might find the problem by comparing Registry entries on the two systems, looking for missing or incorrect keys related to the RPC Server. But where to start? I did find a Microsoft KnowledgeBase article that mentioned a Registry key called HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Rpc, but that key looked fine on the problem machine when I examined it with REGEDIT.

Hack the Registry
So I poked around on my own machine until I found HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\RpcSs (remember RPCSS from above?) and noted that this Registry key was missing from the problem machine. I knew from years of thrashing around in the Registry that both HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run and HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services have something to do with the applications and services that are automatically run at system startup time, so this seemed promising.
I exported the RpcSs key from my Registry (using REGEDIT's File/Export feature) and imported it to the other machine (with REGEDIT's File/Import), thinking there was NO way this would solve the problem, but it was worth a shot in the dark. Wonder of wonders, I rebooted and everything was back to normal. The RPC Server showed up in the Services list just like I had hoped, and it was running!
I should add the caveat that mucking about in your Windows Registry can be dangerous, if you're not careful about what you add, delete or modify. So make a backup of your Registry before you do so. The easiest way to backup your Registry is to create a Restore Point using System Restore. See my article on Using System Restore for more help with that.

Source:- http://askbobrankin.com/rpc_server_unavailable.html

Windows OneCare

2009-06-22T21:32:00.000-07:00

OneCare is one of the newest form of software and released by Microsoft. This tool is helpful make your system optimized and Safe at that time when your are unable to do such things.

Windows OneCare
Windows OneCare is a comprehensive service that offers one-click solutions to address both security and performance issues on your computer. OneCare continuously scans your system for potential security vulnerabilities and looks for ways to optimize your PC's performance. If it detects anything you can do to improve the overall "health" of your computer, OneCare will alert you and suggest a solution.
Make sure that your Antivirus and Firewall packages protecting you adequately from viruses, worms, Trojan horses, hackers, and other threats? But at that situation only OneCare will scan your entire system (or just individual files and folders) for malware and other security problems. You can also check attachments that you receive through emails or MSN Messenger for viruses or worms.
OneCare Tune-up automates your routine maintenance and helps to improve your computer's performance. This automated service performs the following functions:

1. Scan your computer for viruses.
2. Defragment your hard disk to help improve efficiency.
3. Remove unnecessary files to increase available hard disk space.
4. Ensure that security updates from Microsoft are installed.

Backup and Restore
OneCare is also helpful and will also back up your files automatically if you have an external hard drive, or copy your important files and settings to CDs or DVDs. This protects you from data loss due to accidental deletion, viruses, faulty software or hardware failure. If you have ever suffered through a hard drive crash and the frustration of lost data that took days, weeks or years to create, then you understand the importance of AUTOMATED backups. In the event of a data loss, your file(s) can be recovered easily from the backup media.
The Windows OneCare service is in beta testing, and Microsoft is accepting customer requests for participation. You can learn more and sign up for the beta here:

http://beta.windowsonecare.com/

Note: Microsoft has made the beta available only for US citizens at this time.

Install the Windows Server Backup Feature on Server Core

2009-06-19T03:00:00.000-07:00

Before you can back up a Server Core computer, you must install the Windows Server Backup feature. This can be done in two ways:-

• From the command line, using the Ocsetup command
• By using an answer file during an unattended installation of Server Core

From the Command Line
Using Ocsetup.exe, you can install the Windows Server Backup feature with the following command:
C:\Users\Administrator.FABRIKAM>start /w ocsetup WindowsServerBackup

To verify the result, you can use this:
C:\Users\Administrator.FABRIKAM>oclist | find " Installed"

Using an Answer File
You can also install the Windows Server Backup feature using an answer file. To do so, simply perform the following steps:
1. Begin by creating and configuring an answer file for unattended installation of Server Core. For information on how to do this, see Chapter 2, “Deploying Server Core.”
2. On your technician computer, open your answer file in Windows System Image Manager (Windows SIM).
3. In the Windows Image pane, expand the Packages node to display the nodes beneath it. Expand the Foundation node to display the Microsoft-Windows-ServerCore-Package node beneath that. Then right-click the address Microsoft-Windows-ServerCore-Package node and select Add To Answer File. The Microsoft-Windows-

Source:- http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/magazine/dd673659.aspx

Windows XP Service Pack 3

2009-06-04T03:54:00.000-07:00

Windows Xp Sp3 is the latest and updated software and service pack of the Windows. In XP SP3 some major things are added is mainly not that are not with added with SP 2. This is one also
one of the best and letest which offer the main of about Windows Security and also for a Network is called Network Access Protection. and the other main futures are as mentioned below
There is also one of the best feature is added for mobile and for Remote user is useful as travelling users are known to be in “promiscuous mode”,.
These updates include some releases that Microsoft has developed like MMC 3.0 and core XML services 6.0.

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Performance updates: The update improves the MS Windows XP performance and enhance interoperability and hardware compatibility for better and flexible operation.

Security Updates: This updates include previous security updates and new updates both on same system.

Out of band releases: In this feature Microsoft developed software or service like MMC 3.0 and core XML services 6.0.

Minor feature updates: Features like NAP have been added so that customers can now take advantage of Windows 2008 server.
Support for WPA2 is also available as a separate download.

Microsoft recommends Windows XP Service Pack 3 as the de facto standard for users running Windows XP.

Service Pack 3 is the baseline update for customers still using Windows XP. Microsoft have elected for the latest version of Internet explorer to not be installed with Service Pack 3.
If IE7 or IE6 is detected during the installation respective updates and security patches are applied to match the correct version.

Network Access Protection compatibility (NAP). This feature enables Windows XP computers to leverage the NAP feature in Windows Server 2008.
This is also found in Windows Vista. From a compliance perspective this is a big win, as this element enables users to better protect their network by evaluating the connected system’s heath status, for example, the antivirus pattern level and the patch level of the respective machine. If the computer at time of connection complies with the prerequisite policy element then the machine is allowed network access, if the policy is not met then the machine is quarantined to a network segment, which has limited access to resources.

This limited access allows for the machine to be updated to an acceptable level before being scanned again and approved to be used on the production network.

"Black Hole" router detection algorithm. This feature enables the XP client to identify routers that drop packets.
This is a backported feature found in Windows Vista.

remote Help and Chat Based Services

2009-06-01T01:25:00.000-07:00

LivePC Help and Support is also available on your desktop by using your mouse single click, where after clicking on that it will automatically connect you in touch with IYogi Experts and Technicians who can remotely diagnose and fix problems over Internet using chat window similar to IM programs. IYogi supports and also provides the operations such as virus diagnosis / removal, PC tune-up, Internet login protection, email account setup using outlook and outlook express, software installation, printer setup, printer troubleshooting, Green PC, and computer troubleshooting.

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LivePCSupport:
Live PC Support keeps your system upto date and also keep your data clean and protected. This is the only process by which user can reach at the destination where they can find exact solution for their Computer and viruses and malware etc.
By using this feature and tools you can just come in contact with live help and with the expert whom he guide you or will directly try to resolve your queries and also he/she inform you on the chatting. So you can also use this tool to remove virus and make your system free and also make your self an expert...
Instead of turning her attention away from the proposal or the accounts, the business owner can click the "LivePCSupport" icon on her desktop. LivePCSupport puts computer users in touch with IYogi Experts, who can remotely fix many problems over the Internet. The icon opens up a chat window, similar to sending Instant Messages.
On the chat the business owner describes the PC problem or question. The IYogi technician connects to the subscriber's computer using the Internet. In many cases, the support technician can delete a file or change a setting to fix the problem. LivePCSupport subscribers enjoy the benefits of PCs and the Internet without having to be computer experts.
This affordable live computer support service includes many of the operations a business normally has to puzzle through, or to pay for an onsite visit for help with: Virus Diagnosis and Removal, PC Tune-up, Internet Login Protection, Email Account Setup, Software Installation, Printer Setup, Printer Troubleshooting, Green PC, and Computer Troubleshooting.

LivePCSupport is also differs from other support programs in that it is chat- rather than telephone-based. Telephone Support services provide only instructions over the phone. If the PC user or operator is unaccustomed to computers, then at that time the instructions can be hard to follow. With hands-on support, IYogi experts perform diagnose problems and then repair them via an Internet connection.

Microsoft Windows Vista Repair

2009-05-29T04:18:00.000-07:00

First of all make sure that you have the windows vista repair disk.

NOTE: The Vista Bootable CD can run from within Vista. Just launch the CD once Vista has loaded up and go to Install, then select Install Now and then choose Upgrade and then click OK or NEXT to proceed.

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Do the following to repair Windows Vista operating System
1. Insert Disk and then Boot up the system.
2. A dialog box or message appears that "Windows is loading files", Please wait.
3. Wait for few minutes then you will get a language selection option.
4. Select the language as English (US) and press NEXT to proceed.
4. On the Install display message click: "Repair your computer".
5. Windows will search and find your copy of Vista on the machine.
6. Select the appropriate Vista copy and click next.
7. You will now see the following options:---
a. Startup Repair – This option automatically fixes the problems which are stopping Windows from starting.
b. System Restore - This will Restore Windows to an earlier point in time.
c. Windows Complete PC Restore - This will restore your entire Operating system and programs installed, system settings and files - from a back up that you have previously created.
d. Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool - This section checks your computer's memory for errors.
e. Command Prompt
8. This is because that you are not able to boot Windows Vista and use GUI mode and then select the system Restore option and then adjust the date you want to go back when system was working properly. If your Operating System is fine you can always use the startup repair option.
For those whom they have Pre-Installed and OEM versions: (please check with your manufacturer first).
1. Turn ON you computer and Press F8 key to boot for further.
2. You may now get an advanced options screen. Select the "Repair your computer option" and hit enter.
3. Select your language and press next.
4. Enter your user name and password and then next. (User name Should be in Admin group or Administrator)
5. The recovery options should now appear.
6. Most of the time just using the system restores to set your computer back ought to solve your issue. If that is not the case try the Startup repair option using CD.

Source : http://www.articlesbase.com/internet-law-articles/microsoft-windows-vista-repair-515106.html

Remove Vista service pack using Command Prompt

2009-05-29T03:22:00.000-07:00

Uninstall Windows Vista service pack from a Command Prompt
Note If you have already performed the Disk Cleanup Wizard, then it may have removed some temporary installation files which are needed to uninstall the Windows Vista service pack. If this is the case, this method may not work for you and you should go to method 2.
Follow these steps to remove Vista SP from System using Command prompt:--

1. Click on START and ALL Programs and select Accessories and then click on Command Prompt to open.

2. Run the following command, as appropriate for the version of the Windows Vista service that you want to uninstall:-

* For Windows Vista Service Pack 1:
C:\temp\Windows6.0-KB936330-X86.exe /x:C:\temp

* For Windows Vista Service Pack 2:
C:\temp\Windows6.0-KB948465-NNN.exe /x:C:\temp

3. You have to create a sandbox environment before you can continue to perform step4. This helps you safely run an untrusted program. To create a SANDBOX, type md sandbox.

4. To remove the Windows Vista service pack, type, or copy and paste the following command, as appropriate for the version of the Windows Vista service that you want to uninstall::

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* For Windows Vista Service Pack 1
start /w pkgmgr.exe /m:c:\temp\Windows6.0-KB936330-X86.cab /up /s:sandbox

* For Windows Vista Service Pack 2
start /w pkgmgr.exe /m:c:\temp\Windows6.0-KB948465-NNN.cab /up /s:sandbox.

5. After Pkgmgr.exe Finishes, you are prompted to RESTART the computer to complete the uninstall process.

If these steps successfully uninstall the Windows Vista service pack, and this resolves the issue, you are Finished. If these steps do not uninstall the Windows Vista service pack, or if these steps uninstall the service pack but do not resolve your issue, you will have to restore the system to a previous state. To do this, go to method 3.

In this command, NNN represents x86, x64, or IA-64.

Back Up Your Hard Drive Now

2009-05-20T03:49:00.000-07:00

Hard disk fails. It's a fact in computing life. Of course, nobody wants to lose their important data at a glance. You don't want your thesis gone and all you have is a blue screen on your computer. That is why backing up your hard disk is equally important. There are so many ways to back up your hard disk.

There are many mediums on which you can backup your information. The most common right now are CD-Rewritable Drives, and Zip Drives. CD-Rewritable Drives are different than CD-Writeable drives, the difference being that with Rewritable, you can erase and copy over the same CD, much like you can with a floppy disk. Zip disks look like over sized floppy disks, and can hold about 100 MB of information each. CDs can hold about 700 MB of information each.

The most useful way is to set up an automatic back up after a certain time, whenever you prefer. You cannot expect that you will always remember to do manual back up. Or, you don't want to have a closet full of burned CD's or DVD's. Once you get your automated back up running, you don't have to fear again of losing your important files.

There's a number of hard drive backup solutions. Plug in hard drive backup is practically plugged and play. Taking advantage of the usefulness of USB 2.0 isn't just hard drive backup solutions, but is equally useful as hard drives in their own right. Additionally, many of these external storage solutions do not require drivers aside from what they install themselves.

Perhaps the most common option in backing up your hard disk is the use of external hard drive kit. With the use of external hard drive, you can easily take any stock hard drive, and install it the small box provided.

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You can plug the box into your computer using either USB 2.0 or Fire Wire (depending on the kit) and you have an instant external hard drive backup. The great thing about this process is that you can continue to expand the size of your backup hard drive as the technology for hard drives improves. This is to avoid any problem that may arise with your storage device not keeping up with the size of your new computers larger hard drive.

Backups are not just useful for hardware disasters, like when you need to replace a failed hard disk. If your system becomes infected with a virus because you inadvertently opened an infected email attachment, or if you installed a program that made the whole computer unusable, you may want to restore your computer to the time before any of these things happened. If you want to get more tips, how to repair a PC follow the link below.

How to Speed Up Your Windows XP

2009-05-19T02:44:00.000-07:00

Despite Microsoft's best marketing efforts, you haven't yet upgraded to Vista. You still prefer your trusty old copy of Windows XP. And, despite your diligence in protecting your beloved XP machine from viruses and sneaky trojan horses, Windows is noticeably slower than when you first installed it. Don't panic -- there are a number of things you can do to get your XP system running faster.

Keep in mind though, that, while these tips listed below can help you speed up Windows and recover hard drive space, you aren't going to see the sort of speed boost you'd get from upgrading your key hardware components. If you're unhappy, for instance, with the write speed of your hard drive, a few of these tips may help, but not nearly as much as upgrading to an ultra-fast Serial ATA (SATA) drive capable of 10,000 RPM. Also, adding more RAM almost always brings life to an older, slower system.

Defragment Your Hard Drive

XP's Disk Defragmenter.

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Once the go-to solution for all speed problems in Windows, Windows Vista has largely eliminated the need for defragmenting by doing it automatically in the background. In Windows XP, however, defragmenting is still a fact of life.

Fragmentation happens when the computer writes files to disk without keeping everything together in one spot. Thus, if you just saved a large image you've been working on in Photoshop, part of it might be near the middle of the disk and part of it might be at the end, which means it takes longer for the disk to find it. Bring those separate parts together is what's known as defragmenting.

In XP, it's fairly simple process. However, note that you won't be able to use your computer while it's busy defragmenting. And if it's been a while since you defragmented, it can take some time. In other words, don't do this in the middle of busy day at the office.

To defragment your boot drive, open My Computer and right-click the disk you want to defragment. Select Properties and then click the Tools tab where you'll see the Defragment Now option. Just click Defragment and wait for the process to finish.

Improve Startup Times

Whenever Windows starts it automatically loads a number of programs, many of which you may not need. Unfortunately stopping programs from running at start-up isn't easy because there's several places these programs can live.

The three main places to investigate are the Startup folder, inside logon scripts and, in some cases, the Registry. By far the easiest of these is the Startup folder which can be found here:

C:\Documents and Settings\username\Start Menu\Programs\Startup

Just open the folder and delete the shortcuts to any programs you don't need when you start Windows.

Tip: You can also clean out the startup items by navigating to Start >> Programs >> Startup and then right-clicking items you want to remove.

To get to the other startup items, open up a command window and type msconfig. Look for the Startup tab and uncheck the box next to the program. Be careful though. Some items in here are required for Windows to function properly, and sometimes it's difficult to tell what a program actually is.

Tip: Maximize the window so that you can see the full file path to the application. In most cases, that will give you a better idea whether or not you need that application.

Another thing to clean is the Scheduled Tasks folder (C:\Windows\Tasks) where you can get rid of any programs that you don't want to run automatically on a schedule.

Keep in mind when you're disabling things that it's better to try them one at a time rather than disabling programs in large batches. That way if you restart and something isn't working you know the culprit.

Turn Off Unnecessary Services

Services are background processes that run silently without you ever knowing about them. Because Windows takes the everything-and-the-kitchen-sink approach there's likely to be some unnecessary services running in the background.

To get rid of them go to Start >> Run, type "services.msc" and hit return. Double-click on the service you want to get rid of and change the startup type to Disable.

Here are some examples of services you may not need: Alerter, Distributed Link Tracking Client, Fast User Switching, Indexing Service, Netmeeting Remote Desktop Sharing, Secondary Logon, Telnet and Workstation. There are dozens more you sift through to see if you need them and run a few rigorous web searches to see if you need all of them.

Use caution. If you disable the Computer Browser service, for example, you might find that you can no longer connect to computers on your local network. Before you make changes to unknown services, see if you can find a source that quantifies the exact performance gain you'll see from making this change. Many will only reclaim a few megabytes of RAM.

Clean House

Ccleaner

Like most people, you probably have a number of files and programs you don't need that are eating up hard drive space. When it comes to files it's your call, but for getting rid of programs we recommend the free application CCleaner which is faster and much more thorough than the default Add/Remove application provided with Windows.

Optimize Your BIOS

Gladiator BIOS

The BIOS is a set of instructions that's hard-wired into your computer's motherboard. It stands for Basic Input/Output System, and it's responsible for initializing the hardware on your computer whenever it boots up. Tweaking your BIOS will only provide small performance gains on most computers, but on heavily-customized or recently upgrade older computers, it can make a noticeable difference.

Update Your BIOS. Most computer manufacturers and motheboard manufacturers regularly release updates to their BIOS versions. Check with the company which manufactured your computer or its motherboard for the appropriate download. You can usually find out which BIOS version you're running in the BIOS's settings. In the old days, they used to use floppy discs. Now, BIOS upgrades can be performed using bootable CD-Rs or installers that run within Windows. If you need to update your BIOS, the download should come with instructions.

Disable Unused Ports. Are you using that parallel port? What about the VGA port? Have a look at the back of your PC and see if there's anything that you don't have a monitor, scanner or some other peripheral attached to. Then, go into the BIOS when your computer boots and disable that port. You can usually find them in a menu called "integrated peripherals." If you need the port in the future, go back into the BIOS menu and enable it.

Turn Off Built-in Features On Your Motherboard. Most motherboards have a lot of the basics, like RJ-45 networking and sound, built-in. Some even ship with RAID controllers or other fancy hardware you're not using. If you've recently upgraded to a better sound card, you can disable the one that came installed on your board. Likewise if you installed a wireless card -- you won't be needing that Ethernet component any longer. Disable the built-in components you're not using by turning them off in the BIOS. Just like disabling ports, you can always turn them back on if and when you need them.

What Everybody Ought to Know about Spyware and Adware

2009-05-18T03:22:00.000-07:00

Spyware and adware risk your sanity with pop up ads, risk your personal identity and your computer will no longer work well. But you can protection yourself from these problems. First you must get rid of any type of spyware or adware that is lurking in your computer, and then you need to protect yourself from it entering into your system again.

What is the difference between spyware and adware?
Spyware is a term that describes any type of software that is used for such things as collecting personal information, changing the configuration of your computer, advertising and anything else that can be done. The catch is that spyware is downloaded without your permission. Usually, you won't notice it's even there when it enters your system. With spyware; the potential could be leaked personal information to another source. In other words, someone is spying on you. Adware, though, displays advertisements.

How your computer gets infected with Spyware and adware?
Usually this software is downloaded to your computer without your consent.
Sometimes by signing up for a service online you, without intention, also agree to receive targeted ads. By downloading company's software, this Companies track where you go online and what you do in order to provide you with ads that are targeted to your interests.

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Is it bad for your computer?
One problem that often happens with spyware and adware is that they can change your computer's settings. Changing your web browser's home page or could change the actual configuration of your computer. Sometimes you might not succeed to remove them from your computer. Spyware and adware will cause your computer to move slower and the more spyware that gets into the system; the harder it will be for you to do the things you want to do. Another thing while surfing, your online moves are getting tracked and your personal information, such as your credit card information, your addresses, and other sensitive personal information can be sent to unwanted resources .

Spyware and adware is not something that you can ignore. Do the required actions and protect your computer and your privacy.To learn more how to protect your computer and repair it follows the link below.

How to Optimize A Fresh Ubuntu Installation

2009-05-15T00:33:00.000-07:00

You've just download the latest and greatest version of Ubuntu Linux and it didn't cost you a thing. You breezed through the installation and a brand new desktop is staring you in the face -- now what?

Ubuntu's Add/Remove Prog

There are a few things you'll need to do if you want to get the most out of your Linux desktop. But don't worry, none of this is too complicated. In fact, it's much easier than trying to do the same on Windows or a Mac.

The first thing to do is open up the Add/Remove Programs application (Click on Applications > Add/Remove...). This is a simple manager for installing and uninstalling software on your Ubuntu system. There are literally hundreds of free goodies at your disposal here -- Start with this list of essentials.

Web and Chat

Ubuntu ships with Firefox 2, but it never hurts to have an alternative like Opera around. And make sure to go ahead and install the Flash player so you won't have any problems with YouTube and other Flash-heavy sites.

The latest Firefox betas offer an Ubuntu-styled skin.

If you'd like to live on the bleeding edge, Firefox 3 offers a new visual theme that integrates very nicely with the Gnome desktop. You won't find Firefox 3 in Add/Remove programs yet, but you can download it from Mozilla and follow UbuntuGeek's instructions to get it up and running. Tombuntu has some advice for installing Firefox 3 beta 3.

For BitTorrent downloads, our personal favorite is Deluge, a Gnome app that's a bit like Azureus, but doesn't use Java. If you're a KDE fan, kTorrent is your best bet. You can also run a Windows copy of µTorrent through Wine if you want -- many swear it's still the fastest Torrent app on Linux.

Chatting in Ubuntu happens through Pidgin, a very nice multi-protocol chat client (formerly known as Gaim) that can handle just about any chat service you're likely to be a member of. However, if Pidgin's not your cup of tea, there's also the KDE app Kopete.

Multimedia

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While the default audio player that ships in Ubuntu will do just fine, you may as well grab the king of digital music on any platform -- Amarok. It's like iTunes with Wikipedia and Last.fm stashed away inside it, and it'll never sell you DRM.

If you're planing to copy and burn DVDs you'll want to have a look at K9copy. Yes, it's a KDE app, but it will run in Gnome without too many dependencies and it strikes a nice balance between no-need-to-tweak default settings and not too hard to tweak if you're in the mood power features.

VLC on the Linux desktop

For movies we recommend having both MPlayer and VLC around, between the two of them you should have most everything covered. We also like the Miro video player, which isn't in the Ubuntu Repositories, but there's a very simple install guide on the Miro site. It's especially worth the effort since you can subscribe to its great Ubuntu channels with video tutorials galore.

Also make sure to install the various GStreamer plugins, which will handle most video codecs -- from mpeg to DivX, the GStreamer collection should have you covered.

Enabling DVD Playback

For legal reasons, Ubuntu Linux does not ship with the ability to decrypt and play the video files that live on most commercial DVDs. Unfortunately, the libraries we need aren't available through the package manager either, which means we'll need to use the Terminal (Click on Applications > Accessories > Terminal). But there's no need to panic, this is only time you'll really need the command line and it's only two lines of code.

Just open up a new terminal window and type:

sudo apt-get install libdvdread3

Ubuntu will ask for your password and then download the package. Now you just need to install it with this line:

sudo /usr/share/doc/libdvdread3/install-css.sh

That's it. Now your DVDs should play back without any trouble. However, Totem, the default media player in Ubuntu isn't all that great. We suggest replacing it with the Video LAN Client (VLC). If you haven't already added VLC, which was covered in the previous section, just head to Add/Remove Programs and search for VLC. Check the box, hit Apply and you're done.

To make the newly installed VLC player the default option, just click the System menu and navigate to Preferences > Removable Drives and Media. That'll open a new window where you'll see a Multimedia tab. Click that tab and look under the "Video DVD Discs" section. You should find a text box which reads: "totem %m." Just replace "totem" with "vlc" and you're done.

Desktop Effects

Compiz running on Ubuntu

Although certainly not necessary for getting the most out of Ubuntu, the visual candy of Compiz adds some welcome bling to your desktop. As of Gutsy Gibbon (7.10) Ubuntu ships with Compiz installed. There are three default settings (under System > Preferences > Appearance) which offer varying degrees of visual effects.

If you'd like more control, just fire up Add/Remove Programs and search for the Advanced Desktop Effects Settings. Check the box to install and head back to the Appearance panel where you should now see a fourth option -- Customize.

Click on Customize and you'll be able to fine tune Compiz until you achieve total desktop nirvana.

Accessories

The Install/Remove program manager offers a huge list of applications available for your system. Here's some of our suggestions:

Microsoft Core Fonts - This will install a number of Microsoft TrueType fonts which will greatly improve the readability of your system.

Glipper - A clipboard manager that allows you to step backward in time through your cut-n-paste actions and retrieve bits of text.

Flickr Uploader - An easy way to get your images into Flickr, the online photo-sharing app.

Top 10 Simple Computer Maintenance Tips

2009-05-14T02:58:00.000-07:00

1. Never open a file you download before pass it through antivirus -
- Select the download file and right click.
- Scan virus.

2. Take care to run once week cleaning adware - better to set up a scheduler.

3. Remove adware the moment you got it - this ads and popup are bad for your computer.

- Close all running processes and browsers.
- Disconnect your PC completely from the internet.
- Scan your computer with your anti-Adware for a full scan and delete all threats, then reboot.
- Repeat these actions until your computer is free of adware.

4. Always turn on the firewall - use window XP firewall and protect your privacy from invaders, you can never know who is trying to get privet information from your computer. To those of us that are using mobile computers I will recommend to use a powerful firewall.

5. Always backup you things, better to by UPS (Standby power supply)-
Use UPS and your computer jobs will not stop when power fails.

6. Defrag your hard driver - use window XP tools or external powerful tools.
you will be surprised to know that defragging your hard driver once a month could save your hard driver from crashing .

7. Back up your files, hard driver - better to set up a scheduler.
There are varieties of back up option such as online, use an external hard driver, or just burn your important data to CD. Also back up your computer setting from time to time.

8. Clean your registry - you can use free or paid registry tools - better to set up a scheduler.

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9. Remove unwanted program from start up menu - you can use registry tools that usually gives this feature.

10. Always backup your registry before you install any hardware or software - When you install something to your computer, it will make changes to the registry. Sometimes these changes can affect other parts of your computer can cause problems.

How to Backup your Registry:

- Click on "Start" and then click on "Run".
- Type in "regedit".
- A window will open - select my computer
- Click on "File" and click on "Export".
- Choose type a name of your back up and save to a backup directory.

Speed Up Your Computer With Registry Tool

2009-05-13T02:55:00.000-07:00

What is the Registry
The registry is the heart and soul of windows-based operating systems. The registry gets involved with what ever you do with your PC. It can be editing a document, or exploring web sites, and so on.

Registry is a collection of settings stored in your hard driver include database that makes windows work and control applications that run in your computer.

How registry goes bad
Problems in the registry begin when you uninstall a program, move a folder or do any one of a number of pretty ordinary tasks that we do every day. Registry doesn't do a very good job at optimizing and cleaning itself. A massy registry means more of those annoying computer errors: crashes, computer slowdown, error messages and loads of other really irritating problems.
Free version compared to paid version - here is a short review of 2 known free and paid tools regarding there: features, performance efficiency, and technical support.

Free version compared to paid version
here is a short review of 2 known free and paid tools regarding there features and efficiency.

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Cleaner- allow you to optimize your system, by removing unused and temporary files. It also protects your personal privacy by removing traces of the websites you have visited and the files you have opened. - Available in both free and paid version.

Registry scan & repair - analyses your computers registry (where windows system settings are stored) and fixes any problems and inconsistencies that exist. - Available in both free and paid version.

System Tools - allows you to manage installed programs and applications that run when you turn on your computer. Enable you to delete unwanted programs from start menu. - Available in both free and paid version.

Backups and restore point - gives you the ability to manage backup whether automatically or manually, and provides backup restoring capability. Restoring your registry helps you to ensure the safety of your system during the registry repairing. - I found the paid version friendlier.

IE tools - ensure a better and healthier internet experience by blocking malicious plugging and restore Internet Explorer to the original states respectively. - Available only in the paid version.

Scan scheduler - gives you the ability to schedule scanning every day on a certain hour, I find this feature important because most of us usually forget to scan our computer every day. - Available only in the paid version.

Scanning and repair Registry efficiency
Registry scan & repair is the main and most important feature.
To find out the performance differences between the free version and the paid version,
I run the registry scan with both tools at the same point, scan and repair with each one of them, and the result was as follow:
Paid version found - 122 errors.
Free version found - 114 errors.
Then I run the free version to repair the errors that where found.
And again scan with the paid version, I was surprised to see that at that point it found 142 errors (more then it found before repairing).
So I run the paid version to repair the errors that where found.
After repairing I run the free version scanning and no errors where found!
I would say that these results give you a clue about the efficiency of each tool.

Technical Support
If you are having problems using this tool it will be nice to get some help from a technical support guy. It is obvious that the paid version give you this option.

In the end of the day all you want is that your system will run faster, there is no short way to find out which tool will satisfy your needs.

The easiest way is to run it on your computer and compare the results you get.

The results that I got show me that the paid version was more efficient then the free version. It's up to you to choose.

Speed Up Your PC Yourself

2009-05-12T02:44:00.000-07:00

Most people today use a computer every day either at work, at home or at school. This is machine has become a valuable part of society as it accomplishes various tasks faster and more efficient than before such as typing, computing, creating presentations and even researching.

Another aspect of the computer which made it what it is today is the fact that it is used to access the World Wide Web, more commonly referred to as the internet. This combination has changed the way people live their lives forever. But, the problem now is that these machines are very complicated. They have various parts, different hardware and software programs. The more parts there are, the more things can go wrong and effectively affect speed computer.

A common cause of a computer to become slow is the fact that it runs too many programs at a single time. This will eat up the CPU's memory and it will have a difficult time managing everything which is why it slows down to a crawl. To prevent this from happening, you can consult windows help or any technical support you have with you in order to figure out how to close unwanted programs and enhance your computer's speed.

Another, more dangerous cause for the slowing of any computer system is the spyware. A spyware virus is a computer program which can enter your system undetected if you don't have the proper tools. It can then invade your computer's privacy and steal information. It can also install other programs which can fill up your database or registry which makes it difficult for your computer to function. Fortunately software programs designed to detect and eliminate this problem for you are now available and are download able through the internet.

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Many other problems can occur which can hamper the performance of your computer and slow it down to a crawl such as overheating. Dirty vents, blocked fans and even hardware malfunctions can cause your CPU to overheat and therefore, affect its performance as well. RAM can also be an issue if you have insufficient space left.

The bottom line is, as advanced and as complicated computers are, a lot of things can still go wrong with it. If something goes wrong, then its performance is affected, when that happens you will have a more difficult time in accomplishing your goals. So take good care of your machine, clean it up and do the necessary precautions to Speed up computer and maintain it that way.

Backup Your Gmail Account Locally

2009-05-07T00:27:00.000-07:00

Web-based e-mail services like Gmail, Yahoo Mail or Windows Live Mail are great for their access-anywhere capabilities.

The ease and simplicity of checking your mail in a browser have caused many of us to ditch the desktop client in favor of a web-based interface. It's one less application to have running and, in case of Google's Gmail, the search capabilities and conversation threading blow desktop apps out of the water.

However, using a service like Gmail means you don't have a local backup of your e-mail like you would get if you were using a desktop client. Naturally, that doesn't mean you can't store backups of your e-mail on your local machine. It requires a bit of work to set up, but once you do, you'll be able to enjoy the goodness of Gmail's web interface worry-free.

Backup Gmail Using a Desktop Client

All the major operating systems ship with a built in e-mail client. Some are better than others, but all of them can connect to your Gmail account and download your messages to create a local copy of your mailbox.

Beware that some of these apps may store mail in funky proprietary formats (Apple Mail, Outlook, we're looking at you here) rather than industry standard formats like .mbox. To guarantee cross platform compatibility, we recommend the Mozilla Thunderbird client. Thunderbird 2.0 even offers a handy one-click set up for accessing Gmail.

First, you'll need to futz with Gmail's settings.

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Set Up Gmail & Thunderbird

Step 1. Go to the Gmail web interface and click the Settings link at the top right corner of the page. Look for the "Forwarding and POP/IMAP" tab and click the link.

Step 2. Now you need to enable either POP or IMAP. For most people, POP will work just fine and it's the simpler of the two. Just select the "Enable POP for all mail" option. You'll also notice that you can control what Gmail does when your desktop client connects under the "When messages are accessed with POP" setting. Choose "keep Gmail's copy in the Inbox" since we're just using POP for backup purposes.

Step 3. Now startup Thunderbird, enter your username (the bit before @gmail.com in your e-mail address) and Google password. Thunderbird will begin downloading your e-mail, creating a local backup. There's no need to mess with Thunderbird's settings or since you're just doing this for backup purposes.

Tip: Remember to open Thunderbird periodically so that your mail gets backed up.

Tip: Make a backup of your Google Calender as well using the two-way sync add-on for Mozilla Sunbird.

Tip: Make Thunderbird look like a native Apple app by installing REO-2007's Leopard Mail skin.

While this method will work and is definitely the easiest for most people, there are some drawbacks. The most obvious is that the backup doesn't include your sent mail. If you're looking for a way to improve your backups and automate the process (and you don't mind a little command line tinkering), read on.

Getting Google Docs to Your Use

2009-05-06T02:22:00.000-07:00

Part of the appeal of Google's suite of web-based productivity applications is the integration between them -- Gmail can send events to Google Calendar, Calendar sends reminders and note to Gmail and so on. Lately Google has extended that integration to make working with Google Docs a little bit easier.

Go Go Google Gadgets

There's a Docs gadget for Gmail that displays a list of your recently accessed Google Docs right inside your Gmail inbox. There's also a desktop-based Google Docs gadget that allows you to search and open your Google documents right from your desktop. And don't forget about the very handy link in Gmail that can quickly turn any e-mail into a document.

While all three are helpful in their own right, together they can bring your cloud-based Google workflow in line with the desktop tools you're trying to leave behind.

Gmail integration

If you're using Gmail alongside Google Docs, there are two new features that can make your life a little easier. The first is the new Google Docs gadget, which gives you a list of recently edited Google documents -- as well as a search tool -- in a handy little sidebar toolbox for Gmail.

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To get the gadget you just need to enable it through Gmail Labs.

Google Docs gadget

While logged in to Gmail, click on Settings and go to the Labs panel. Find the "Google Docs gadget" option and enable it. The Google Docs gadget for Gmail will show up in the left-hand column beneath the chat box, labels and other panels you may have already enabled.

Tip: You can get straight to the Labs section of Gmail by clicking on the little green beaker icon in the top right corner of the main Gmail window.

Create a Document

While you're in Labs, go ahead and enable the "Create a Document" tool as well. That will add a link to all your e-mails that can turn each of them into separate Google documents. The new link will be to the left of each message thread alongside the "expand all," "print all," and other message thread tools.

Tip: For added control over your Gmail sidebar, check out the "Navbar drag and drop" Labs feature which allows to easily re-order all the boxes on Gmail's left hand side.

Now you have the ability to get to your Google Docs directly from Gmail and can turn any e-mail into a Google document, but what about the desktop? Well, Google has that covered as well.

Desktop tools

The Google Toolbar software pack recently added a new gadget that allows you to access your Google documents from the desktop. While the ability to search and open your documents right from your desktop is nice, the real killer feature is the drag-and-drop uploading.

Other Tips and Tricks

Google's official tools aren't the only way to get more out of Google Docs. Inventive users have come up with other ideas as well, so if you have a good idea be sure to add it to the list.

If your browser can open bookmarks in the sidebar (like Firefox) add this link to your bookmarks: http://docs.google.com/API/IGoogle and set it to open in the sidebar. That will load the Gmail Docs gadget in your sidebar for quick access to all your documents.

Mac users may not have full support for Google Gadgets, but there is Precipitate which uses the Google Docs API to add your documents to Spotlight searches.

Need offline access to your Google Docs? Install the Gears plugin and enable offline access by clicking the "Offline" link on the top right corner of the Google Docs main page.

Want to create a PDF repository of a bunch of MS Word docs? Just upload the Word docs to Google Docs one by one, then open each one and choose Print. Google will print each doc out as a PDF, which you can save to your desktop.

Organize Multiple Inboxes in Gmail

2009-05-04T00:17:00.000-07:00

There's an enhancement available for Google's Gmail service which lets you see multiple views of your inbox on one screen. It's called Multiple Inboxes.

It's important to note that this feature doesn't let you view multiple Gmail accounts or multiple inboxes on one web page. Instead, it shows you multiple views of your inbox on one page. So, you can have one pane show all incoming messages, one pane for starred messages, one pane for messages with a particular label, one for drafts, and so on.

Activating 'Multiple Inboxes'

The feature can be activated on Gmail's Labs page

1. While logged in to Gmail, click on Settings.

2. Go to the "Labs" tab and check the Multiple Inboxes box.

3. Back in your inbox, you will now see the default three-panel view. To make changes to the default view, go into Settings and click on the "Multiple Inboxes" tab, which should now show up.

Altering the Default View

The default view puts two panes (starred and drafts) to the right of your mailbox. However, you can change this default view and set up your multi-panel inbox however you'd like.

This page is a wiki and can be edited by anyone. Got extra tips for modifying Gmail's Multiple Inboxes? Add them here!

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'Stack' the Inbox Views

The default view minimizes the amount of scrolling needed to see everything, but it also does away with the checkboxes in the smaller panes, meaning you have to leave your split-screen view if you want to archive, delete or bulk process any of the messages in the filtered panes.

In the Multiple Inboxes settings, you can change the configuration so that your filtered panes appear above or below your master inbox. You get the checkboxes back, and your subject lines aren't truncated as sharply, so you can see more information about each message.

Set Labels and Filters

You can set up custom searches in the panels using Gmail's standard search syntax. Enter terms like these below into the appropriate pane in the Settings tab for Multiple Inboxes.

label:foo - Shows only messages with a specific label

label:foo label:bar - Shows messages labeled both "foo" and "bar"

label:foo OR label:bar - Shows messages labeled either "foo" or "bar"

is:unread - Shows only unread messages

is:starred - Shows only starred messages

is:chat - Shows only archived Gmail chat sessions

is:sent - Shows your outbox, or only e-mails you've sent

Tip: You can combine any of these criteria and refine your searches simply by separating the terms using spaces. To run "or" searches, which include all messages that meet any of the criteria you're searching for, put the word "OR" (with both letters capitalized) in between each search term.

Tip: To keep messages from showing up in multiple places, you can set Gmail's filters to auto-archive any of the messages that will end up in one of your secondary panes. That way, they never show up in your master inbox, they just go straight to the smaller panes.

How to be Safe with your Email's

2009-05-01T01:09:00.000-07:00

The best way to protect yourself is to use encrypted protocols when communicating with servers. Don't use plain old POP and SMTP. These not only transport your email over unencrypted WiFi, but many also simply send your user account and passwords over the WiFi network as plaintext.

If you use Gmail, use the URL https://gmail.com (note the extra 's' on the end of the 'http'). This uses SSL over HTTP and encrypts not only your Gmail account and password, but also your email. In fact, you can configure your Gmail account to always use the secured https protocol.

Be careful about putting a Gmail widget on your iGoogle page too. It doesn't expose your password, but it does pass senders, subject lines, and a few lines of the email in plaintext over WiFi. By the way, you can also use https for iGoogle too.

What about using Outlook or another Email client? Unfortunately, most email providers don't use secured POP or SMTP access via standard Email clients. Most email clients could support a secure connection, but most email providers simply don't provide you with that option. Check with your email provider. If the email provider does use SSL, ask if they encrypt the entire email session or just the sign on.

However, even though most email providers don't provide secure email over standard email clients like Outlook, most email providers do have secured webmail access. So, if you have to access your email over an open WiFi account, try your webmail interface and use use https instead of plain http.

Secure Your Wi-Fi While Traveling

2009-04-30T00:06:00.001-07:00

Wireless internet enabled laptops and devices like BlackBerries and iPhones have been true life-savers for travelers. Back before the whole wireless internet explosion, the frequent flying businessman, the leisure traveler and the vacationing mom and dad all had to be content to exist in a sort of purgatory while moving from point A to point B.

Nowadays when we’re on the road, you have very little to worry about when it comes to getting the information you need, corresponding with e-mail or instant messaging or writing up those important spreadsheets. As a nice bonus, if you’re just bored and need to entertain yourself on a ten hour flight somehow, you can just sit back and watch some YouTube videos, since a lot of airlines are now providing cheap in-flight wireless internet.

But here’s the thing; wherever you have a new way of transferring information, snoops also have a new way of stealing information and sending bad information.

So it stands to reason that this new trend of providing free wireless internet in airports and in flight is also suffering a bit of turbulence in the form of malicious hackers.

A Beginners Guide To Choosing Processors

2009-04-24T01:57:00.000-07:00

The job of a processor is to execute program instructions which perform functions. These instructions come in the form of software, so basically a processor interprets software. How well it does this is determined by its architecture or its internal design. Intel and AMD describe this internal design with names like P4, P III, i7, and so on. Within these architecture types are family names like Nehalem, Centrino, and Sempron.

In addition to the internal design, it’s important to know how the processor communicates externally to the rest of the PC. This takes into consideration the interface between the systems chipset, memory, and all the other devices connected to the motherboard. The lines of communication between the cpu and these other devices are called buses.

You may have heard people refer to the processor’s Front Side Bus or FSB. This is the pathway that takes information from the processor to the memory controller. It is usually given a number that designates its size or width, for example a 333Mhz FSB. The number is describing the amount of information that moves across that path. Intel’s latest architecture moves the memory bus inside the processor so for the very latest, FSB is no longer a factor. This is not the first time for this arrangement. AMD has done this for quite some time with their HyperTransport. Moving the controller into the processor is all about improving communication to the memory located on the motherboard of your system. It's a proven technology.

OK, so lets take a look and see where we are so far; architecture and FSB or Front Side Bus. I'm leaving FSB in the equation and you'll see why later.

Because the processor architecture controls how data flows between various parts of the processor, memory, and the systems controllers, it is the first thing to consider. If you are buying a replacement processor you will be limited to what physically fits the motherboard. If you are buying a new system, look at the architecture. Don’t be content knowing it’s an Intel or and AMD. Find out exactly which model processor you are buying.

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The next thing to look at when considering a processor is it's size. What "size" processor is it? How is the size determined? Basically the size of a processor is determined by the FSB and a multiplier. So, if you are using an Intel processor with a FSB of 333MHz and a multiplier of 9, you will have a 2.997 GHz (333x9=2997) or rounded off a 3 Gig processor. This multiplier is never shown on packages or the easily found in the specs, so be content to know the FSB and total Clock Speed ie. 3.0 Gh of your processor. When you hear the term "overclocking" these are the two main settings it refers to. If you take the above 333MHz x 9 = 2.997 processor and change it to 383MHz x 9 = 3.4 GHz processor. That's not what I'm suggesting but it is what overclockers do.

After clock speed, look for the number of cores. In the past, consumers mostly used processors with single cores. The addition of multiple cores is the same as adding more processors. The amount of total work your system can do increases dramatically when using multiple core processors. To be more precise, multiple cores affect the amount of work the processor "could" do if maxed out with instructions.
comparison

At some point people believed that a dual core processor was twice as fast as a single core processor but that wasn't exactly true. Just like a highway,vehicles don't move faster just because there are more lanes. You just move more of them. If there's not enough work to max out a single core then the extra core does not help. One more point, just to be sure I'm not giving the wrong impression. Because an older single core processor is clocked higher doesn't mean it's faster than a lower clocked newer processor. The reason is that newer technology is faster of itself.

Remember to stick with the latest architecture. It's always smart to get the biggest and best, most cores and highest clocked processor you can afford. That’s what gives you the best performance and a hedge against the way technology progress to out date your system.

If I were to buy a processor today, my first step would be to check the Intel site and find the latest and greatest Architecture. That is i7 Nehalem. Nehalem comes in two sizes so of course I want the larger 6.4GT/s over the smaller 4.8GT/s. Intel calls this the Extreme edition

source: PC Pitstop Techtalk

Is It The End of the Road For Windows 2000?

2009-04-20T04:15:00.000-07:00

With Windows XP entering Extended Support mode this week and Windows 2000 due to leave extended support on July 13 2010, Andrew Garcia suggests that now is a good time to start planning your next OS upgrade.

Windows XP enters the stage of life known as Extended Support this week, but IT administrators should have their eye on a Windows OS family near the end of the Extended Support road: Windows 2000 Server and Windows 2000 Professional.

For many organisations, XP's move to Extended Support won’t mean much in the short term. Microsoft will continue to release free security updates for the desktop operating system (with the most recent service pack, SP3) through the usual channels until August 2014. What will change, however, is the availability of non-security-related hotfixes-from here on out, they will require the purchase of an Extended Hotfix Support Agreement, as well as payment of applicable per-fix fees.

During Extended Support, complimentary incident support is no more, but paid support will still be available via phone or Web. Also, XP customers will no longer be able to request product design or feature changes.

For many organisations, the continued availability of complimentary security hotfixes will be enough to keep the aging XP OS viable for a few more years, allowing companies more time to investigate and weigh the benefits of moving to Windows 7 once it ships.

Windows 2000 is a much more pressing issue, however: The server and desktop iterations will leave Extended Support on July 13, 2010, marking the end of security hotfix availability.

As Windows 2000 is generally susceptible to the same flaws as Windows XP, the lack of security patches for the older operating system will be a much more dire circumstance in need of more immediate attention. Indeed, the most recent Microsoft Security Bulletin for April 2009 contained three patches deemed Critical for Windows 2000 and another two rated Important.

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As I was starkly reminded on a recent visit to a local hospital, many organisations will likely find Windows 2000 still maintains a healthy presence on the desktop or in the data centre. Those companies would do well to soon start budgeting for a 2010 move to a newer Windows iteration (or another operating system altogether), keeping in mind that such a move will likely mean hardware as well as software upgrades.

And if such a move is in on the books for Windows 2000 systems, it makes sense to at the same time consider an upgrade for Windows XP desktops as well, to ease ongoing support.

In the meantime, IT implementers would do well to use Windows 2000 as a benchmark for Windows XP in its Extended Support period. Companies that paid for Hotfix Support Agreements for the older operating system should spend some time evaluating how Microsoft’s support was utilised during this period, using that information to help guide the purchase decisions for Windows.

What is a Trojan Virus and How Do they Spread

2009-04-09T06:25:00.000-07:00

BitDefender, a world renowned antivirus software maker, conducted a research based on its statistics. Its purpose was to show which types of threats dominate the Web. The results are shown on the screenshot to the right. -->

It's clearly seen that nine out of ten most encountered threats are trojan viruses.

The first trojan in the list, Trojan.Clicker.CM, displays commercial ads, which "eat" the bandwidth and, as a consequence, slow down the PC.

It should be pretty evident that methods to remove trojan viruses should quickly adapt to the reality, since trojans lead the malware army.

So before learning how to remove trojan virus, it is important to know what this type of malware is in essence.

In short, as the term suggests, a trojan pretends to look and act like it's a legit Windows application. However, its malicious code is programmed to execute operations that no PC owner would like on his computer.

* Trojans are capable of stealing important information (passwords, credit card numbers, etc.) Then the sensitive data is transmitted over the Web to virus creators, who thn are able to take control over infected computers.

* A considerable slow-down in system performance is one of the consequences of trojan virus infection.
* A user may be distracted by unexpected pop-ups with ads (mostly with casino, poker, adult content).
* Trojan viruses attempt to become parts of the infected system by interacting with Windows processes and injecting malicious code into legitimate files executed by the operating system (Winlogon is an example of such injection when a trojan virus is fully loaded after the user enters login details).

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Trojans may get involved into distribution of unsolicited emails. Sometimes this type of malware is responsible for attacks on other computers connected to the Internet. While it's a bit scary, in fact any PC infected by a trojan virus may be engaged in decentralized attacks onto servers of government institutions, universities, etc.

How Trojans Spread

A trojan virus uses multiple ways to spread over the Web and replicate itself. That's why if you want to know how to remove the trojan virus, you need to be aware of the ways it infects target computers.

1. Through email attachments. Probably the oldest method of mass distribution, it has grown into a new industry of virus propagation. Modern sophisticated software, dedicated servers, large networks of already infected personal computers are used to send out gazillions of spam emails each and every day. A trojan virus may be attached as a greeting card, wallpaper, animated image, screensaver. Many of them have subjects with "hi, here's a greeting card for you!" words.

2. Once downloaded and executed, a trojan may use the address book to send itself to other computers. That's why it is still worth noting that emails from unknown addresses should never be opened.

3. Trojans widely exploit messaging software, especially popular programs like MSN Messenger/Live Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger, Skype, etc.

4. Trojans may be included into bundles of emoticons for email clients and instant messengers alike.

5. Modern Trojan viruses widely exploit security breeches in Windows Operating system and the popularity of multimedia content available online. For example, zlob trojan, responsible for aggressive distribution of over a hundred of fake antispyware programs, used video codecs to install onto target computers. Whenever a surfer visited a website with embedded malicious code, a window would pop-up asking to install a video codec in order to display a movie. Once the visitor clicked to agree to installation, trojan Zlob infected the system immediately.

Are you planning to upgrade your computer?

2009-04-01T02:56:00.000-07:00

Does your computer need an upgrade? It's not as uncommon as you may think. It is important, though, for your pocketbook more than anything else, to ensure that your PC actually needs an upgrade before you do anything drastic.

These tips may help you know if your next computer repair job should be a PC upgrade.

One of the first ways to tell if your PC needs an upgrade is to decide if your machine is worth it. Remember that PCs don't hold their value like cars do. You can't just drop a new motor in and be good for another one hundred thousand miles. If it's three or more years old, you're probably going to be better off investing in a new computer than upgrading. At the same time, though, there are lots of things you can do for less than eighty bucks that may make the time and money well spent on any good PC.

If you feel like your computer is slower than it used to be, you might want to consider upgrading your RAM. Short for Random Access Memory, this component allows you to retrieve and run programs quickly. You need 256MB to run almost anything these days, and if you're a serious user, 512MB is really going to make a difference. If you're working with lots of videos and graphics programs, you want at least a gig (1024MB). The good news, though, is that memory is cheap and installing is easy. It's certainly worth your upgrading while. If you're into gaming, and your system is a good one, consider upgrading your video card. You'll get a better graphical interface, and you don't have to spend that much to play the best games on the market today.

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Moreover, there are lots of games you can't play without an updated card, so it's a good investment. This is a fairly easy install, it's only a matter of a couple of screws, and as long as your motherboard can handle the new card, you'll be good to go in no time.

Upgrading your hard drive is almost a given. You'll know you need to upgrade when you don't have space to install anything else and you keep crashing because your virtual memory disappeared a month ago , and whether it's the digital photos from Christmas or your overflowing iTunes folder, you may want a bit of extra space. Again, this is a fairly cheap upgrade, and the install is pretty basic. The bigger, the better. A PC upgrade is a great computer repair project, but be sure it's worth the money you'll be dropping.

Basic Computer Protection and Defense

2009-03-23T09:23:00.000-07:00

The internet is not a safe place. I hope the sentence got your attention, because it’s completely and undeniably true. Although the Internet is a place to search for information and download just about anything, you can never just assume whoever is letting you download is friendly and helpful. Sometimes, whatever you download has an invisible, but potentially problematic component.

In order to protect yourself, there are three key software pieces to defend your machine, each of which is a layer of protection on its own. By using all three together you’re increasing your operating system’s longevity, because a well-protected system is a healthy system, and runs a lesser risk of needing a complete reinstall than a completely or partially protected one. Note that you only ever need one of each layer - programs on the same layer usually don’t play together well and will interfere with each other, effectively crashing the protection layer.

Anti-virus
Anti-virus software is by far the best-known layer of protection, and which most users get with one of their computer components, usually bundled with the motherboard. There’s a whole variety of virus types - from trojan horses, which act as a legit program but do something entirely unwanted, to worms, which exploit holes in the operating and security systems, to e-mail viruses, which copy themselves onwards to people in your address book and send themselves onward like a chain-letter on steroids.
Anti-viruses generally attempt to either disinfect any infected file by removing the virus from the contents or delete the file completely. Some even have a much safer option of shredding, which wipes the infected file more thoroughly than even deletion. Generally, if the virus hasn’t been started, it’s best to destroy or shred it.

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While an unleashed virus (if the virus is a destructive type) may cause total file destruction, some files may be recovered by disinfection (or healing) which removes the virus from the contents. This typically fails on any executable file such as a program, but has been known to fix documents like Word and Excel files - in case you have no backup, it might help salvage at least part of the original.

While all AV programs can work in a so-called on-demand scan mode, which means the user starts the antivirus manually and sets it to work, some offer on-access scanning, which checks files before they’re actually opened, ensuring that you don’t accidentally unleash a virus. A commonplace feature on some AV programs is called a chest or quarantine, since all infected files are usually moved there and become unopenable so they wouldn’t affect the computer - it’s best to think of the quarantine as a sandbox where the viruses are kept inactive.

To recapitulate, when deciding on your AV, these key factors should affect your
choice.

* modes of scanning - antiviruses that offer both on-demand scanning and
on-access scanning are generally more thorough as well as more convenient,
although on-access scanning can sometimes slow down computer performance by a
bit
* action choice - any antivirus worht its salt will be able to delete the
infected file. Check for the ability to disinfect (or heal), quarantine and
shred - the more options the antivirus has, the better
* library size - obviously, the greater the library of known viruses is, the
more viruses can be detected and eliminated
* update intervals - the closer the time between updates, the better. A week
between updates is not good. A day between updates is good. Multiple updates per
day are a godsend, but they come at a steep price
* critical acclaim - although biased, and sometimes fueled by commercials, it’s
a good overall measurement because antiviruses are commonly pitted against each
other in a stress test
* price - last but definitely not the least, how much you’ll shell out for it

What to Know about your computer and about its protection

2009-03-10T22:38:00.000-07:00

Finally you have the one you were looking forward too! Can't hang around to get it out of the box. Possibly you have had a computer previous too and maybe this is your second or third computer. And, you don't want to have all those problems you hear about. This is the time to think ahead and go for a positive online experience.

You should understand that while you are unpacking your new machine, there are people all over the world who are plotting to spoil your computer with malicious, well-thought out plans. Your computer will endure attacks moments after you go online. This is why we all have to use anti virus protection. You and I just have no choice. The single most important program on your computer is your anti virus program. And, it should be a really good one. Everything on your computer, from your valuable software, your work, to your personal financial records is constantly at risk. I will explain some of the features you should look for in anti-virus software.
Most of us make our choice on price alone. That is, after we use the product that comes with our computers. This is not the way to choose something so important. You need to look at several products before making your decision. Look for the available options for the anti virus and before deciding among one of them consider comparing them as Norton vs McAfee or any other you opt for.

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Look at your available options. Start with the anti virus software that came with your PC. You can get started by getting that software up and running. Don't try to postpone using anti-virus software. After a period of time, your software needs updated. While you are online, your software should be allowed to make daily updates. It is very important to make the first update as soon as your new computer is online for the first time. It is very likely there have been a lot of new threats and viruses introduced since the computer left the factory. Updating the software is the best way to keep your computer protected against these new online dangers.

As you use the software that came with your new computer, it is a good idea to make a list of what you like – and don’t like – about it. Is it easy to update? Is it user friendly? Is it easy to see any problems? Does the software notify you if the update could not be completed? Are updates made available on a daily basis?

Now, you have a basis for establishing what to look for in anti-virus software. Read all you can online to get even more information and even you have options available to consider among some of the services available with anti virus support service providers who can help you with online antivirus setup and support with antivirus installation and update . Some anti virus companies make their software available in trial versions, so be sure to check out a number of different products before deciding which one best suits your needs. Some of the best is free, without a trial.

Take some time to get the best protection you can for your computer. And, periodically back up your files. Al little planning can make your computer experience an enjoyable experience.

Insight to a Tech Glossary

2009-03-04T06:59:00.000-08:00

Here is a quick glossary to some of the common security words often used and what they mean

Active Content - small program that gets installed on a computer while browsing the Internet. The basic function of active content is to provide an interactive Internet experience through videos and toolbars. Sometimes, active content is used to gain unauthorized access to a computer, and then damage the data stored on it or install malicious software on it.

Back Up - to make a duplicate copy of a program, a disk, or data. The duplicate copy is called a backup.

Cache Memory - temporary memory on your computer that is sometimes used to store local copies of files opened when you browse the Internet.

Computer Privacy - keeping a user’s data, including personal files and e-mail messages, such that the data is not accessible by anyone without appropriate permission.

Computer Security - the protection of a computer system that its data from accidental or intentional loss and tampering.

Cookie - a small file on a computer that is created when a user visits a Web site. A Web site uses cookies to identify users who visit the site, and also track the preferences of the users.

Copyright - a method of protecting the rights of an originator of a creative work, such a text, piece of music, painting, or computer program, through law.

Decryption - the process of reconverting the encrypted data into a readable and usable form.

Encryption - the process of converting data into an unreadable and unusable form. Encryption is done to prevent unauthorized access of data, especially during data transmission over the Internet.

Firewall - a filter that blocks unreliable information from the Internet before it reaches your computer or a private network. It provides additional protection against threats such as hackers and viruses. A firewall also helps to ensure computer privacy by restricting external access by any unauthorized user.

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Hacker - a person who uses computer expertise to gain unauthorized access to a computer, and then misuses or tampers the programs and data stored on the computer.

Intellectual Property - any information available on the Internet is intellectual property, which is legally owned by the person who created it. The owner of an intellectual property has the exclusive rights to control the use of this information.

Internet Service Provider (ISP) - a company that provides Internet connectivity to individuals, businesses, and organizations.

Libel - written defamation that has been published. Libel is a punishable offense.

Online Predator - an individual who develops contact with Internet users, through chat rooms, online forums, or e-mail, to exploit them financially or involve them in dangerous relationships.

Password - a unique string of characters that a user types in as an identification code. It is a security measure used to restrict access to computer systems and sensitive files.

Phishing - the act of extracting personal information, such as passwords and credit card details, from computer users and then use the information for malicious purposes.

Plagiarism - the act of copying someone’s work and using it as if it is your own work, without mentioning the source.

Power surge - a sudden increase in line voltage, which may lead to the damage of electronic devices, such as computers.

Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) - an Internet security protocol that ensures data communication by encrypting the information transmitted. The SSL protocol certifies that a Web site is genuine and ensures that the data provided to the site is not misused.

Slander - verbal defamation. Slander is punishable offense.

Software Piracy - unauthorized copying of copyrighted software without obtaining the license or permission of its copyright owner is software piracy.

Spam - an irrelevant and unsolicited e-mail message sent by an unknown sender. A spam is sent to distribute a message to many recipients at one time.

Spyware - a computer program that is installed on your computer without your knowledge. Spyware can secretly send out information about your Web browsing habits or other personal details to another computer through the network.

Trojan Horse - a destructive computer program disguised as a game, utility, or software. When run, a Trojan horse does something harmful to the computer system while appearing to do something useful.

Username - the name by which a user is identified to a computer system or network. To access a computer protected by username and password, a user needs to enter the correct combination of username and password.

Virus - a computer program that is designed to cause malfunctioning of a computer or damage the data stored on the computer.

Worm - a computer program that propagates itself across computers, usually by creating copies of itself in each computer’s memory. A worm might duplicate itself in one computer so often that it causes the computer to crash.

For all of your security worries and troubleshooting you can approach iYogi Technical Support Services

Was your computer fast at one time?

2009-03-02T04:30:00.000-08:00

One of the most common questions I am asked goes something like this: Do computers slow down as they get older?

The answer of course is no - their age is not a reason for them to slow down. After all, they aren’t our parents!

Some reasons why your computer may slow down include:
Too many programs running at once.

This doesn’t mean that you started these programs - they could be running in the background!

Another possibility is your computer may be so full of data, it cannot function efficiently.

Other reasons could be a fragmented hard-drive

Orphan files left behind after installations or un-installations.

The point is, there could be a perfectly good explanation for the slowdown and an even easier fix!

How To's For PC With Windows XP OS

2009-02-24T03:57:00.000-08:00

Enjoy the list of all the those how to queries that creep in your mind about windows xp

How To's For Windows XP

HOW TO: Upgrade to the Final Version of Windows XP from an Interim Build

HOW TO: Save Passwords in Outlook/Outlook Express for Windows XP

HOW TO: Add Windows XP to an Existing Network

HOW TO: Safely Remove Hardware Icon

HOW TO: Clean the Start Menu

HOW TO: Use the File and Settings Transfer Wizard

HOW TO: Create a Multiple-Boot System in Windows XP

HOW TO: Use and Apply Internet/Network Tweaks

HOW TO: Get Windows XP to Boot Faster

HOW TO: Get MP3 Ripping to Work in MP 8 for Windows XP

HOW TO: Modify the Outlook 2002 and Office XP Attachment Restrictions

HOW TO: Use Toolbar Tweaks in IE

HOW TO: Distribute a Custom Desktop Theme to Users

HOW TO: Enable Internet Time Services behind Windows XP Personal Firewall

HOW TO: Create a Hardware Profile on Windows-Based Computers

HOW TO: Troubleshoot Service Startup Permissions

HOW TO: Troubleshoot Internet Service Provider Login Problems

HOW TO: Add Items to the "Send To" Menu in Windows XP

HOW TO: Distribute a Custom Desktop Theme to Users

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HOW TO: Move Mail Folders Between Two Computers in Windows XP

HOW TO: Change File Associations in Windows XP

HOW TO: Display, Use, and Clear "My Recent Documents"

HOW TO: Alter Policy Settings for the Start Menu in Windows XP

HOW TO: Install and Configure Speech Recognition in WinXP

HOW TO: Multi-Boot Windows XP/2000, Windows NT, Windows 95/98

HOW TO: Compress and Expand Files and Folders

HOW TO: Use the Briefcase Feature in Windows XP

HOW TO: Move a Windows Installation to Different Hardware

HOW TO: Restore Windows XP to a Previous State

HOW TO: Start Your Computer with Last Known Good Configuration

HOW TO: Create a Hardware Profile on Windows-Based Computers

HOW TO: Gain Access to the System Volume Information Folder

HOW TO: Remove and Restore Default Desktop Icons

HOW TO: View and Manage Event Logs in Event Viewer

HOW TO: Guard Against Boot Failure With a Windows Boot Disk

HOW TO: Install Additional Files During Automated System Recovery

HOW TO: Disable Dr. Watson for Windows XP

HOW TO: Change the Windows Logon Screen Saver

HOW TO: Start Windows XP Un-installation from a Command Prompt

HOW TO: Modify the List of Programs that Run at Startup

HOW TO: Replace In-Use Files at Windows Restart

HOW TO: Change the System/Boot Drive Letter in Windows

HOW TO: Hide Boot.ini Entries from Displaying Multiple Installs

HOW TO: Add or Change a User's Picture

HOW TO: Change the Default Icons for Folders in Windows XP

HOW TO: Back Up Information to a CD

HOW TO: Check the Video Driver

HOW TO: Create a Shortcut to a Network Location

HOW TO: Add a Control Panel Tool to a Category in Windows XP

HOW TO: Send a Fax in Windows XP

HOW TO: Create a PPPoE Connection in Windows XP

HOW TO: Create a Mirrored Volume

HOW TO: Troubleshoot Possible Error Codes with Driver Verifier

HOW TO: Use Dumpchk.exe to Check a Memory Dump File

HOW TO: Configure Page Files for Optimization and Recovery

HOW TO: Enable or Disable the CTRL+ALT+DELETE Sequence for Logon

HOW TO: Set Up Multiple-Device (Multilink) Dialing in Windows XP

HOW TO: Turn Off Display and Select an Animated Character in Search Companion

HOW TO: Install the Support Tools from the Windows XP CD-ROM

HOW TO: Determine the Source of a File

HOW TO: Set, View, Change, or Remove File and Folder Permissions

HOW TO: Use the Briefcase Feature in Windows XP

HOW TO: Add Components and Programs to Windows XP-Based Computer

HOW TO: Configure Recovery Techniques in Windows XP

HOW TO: Connect to a Printer By Using a Web Browser

HOW TO: Erase Files From a CD-RW Disc

HOW TO: Manage Stored Names, Passwords on Computer Not in Domain

HOW TO: Enable PPP Logging in Windows

HOW TO: Encrypt a Folder in Windows XP

HOW TO: Set the Command Processor Appearance in Windows XP

HOW TO: Work with Scheduled Tasks on Remote Computers

And if still your search is not over let me get that for you.. place your queries and comments to enhance and create a unexhaustable list of HOW TO

Hard Drive Fragmentation: A Tool to Speed PC Performance

2009-02-23T01:26:00.000-08:00

Hard Drive fragmentation occurs when you save a file on your hard drive. During this process the hard drive may be performing many actions and can't always save the file in one continous "chunk of data.

In an effort to provide you as much speed as possible when you save a file the hard drive will "fragment" the file all over the hard drive disc. Sounds confusing huh? Like your file is broken? It's not.

When you want to open and read that file (it could be a large word document for example) your computer will find all the fragments of data on the hard drive and then reasemble the file...here is where things get slow.

Imagine that you have hundreds or thousands of fragmented files! Your computer has to process the reassembly of each file from thousands of fragments! Ouch. That could take awhile.

Fortunatley for us fragmented people, there is a very simple solution! Windows XP and Windows Vista both ship with free hard drive defragmenting software that is super easy to use.

Hard drive defraggers simply scan the hard drive for file fragments and put them back together. Once those fragments are reassembled via the defragger your files will open faster and your computer (in general) will run so much better.

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You should defragment your hard drive once a week. If you're not sure how to launch the windows disk defragger here are some instructions for Windows XP and Vista

To start the Windows XP Disk Defragmenter:

1. Click Start
2. All Programs
3. Accessories
4. System Tools
5. Disk Defragmenter

To use the Windows XP Disk Defragmenter:

1. Select your C: drive (or any other hard drive)
2. Click Defragment
3. Wait for it to finish

Here's how to load the Windows Vista Disk Defragmenter.

1. Click The Windows Globe to the left (a.k.a - start)
2. All Programs
3. Accessories
4. System Tools
5. Disk Defragmenter

To use the Windows Vista Disk Defragmenter

1. Choose a schedule for disk defragmentation to occur. Make sure that your computer will be on during that time.
2. Or, choose defragment now.

Do you have a Slow or Damaged Hard Drives

2009-02-20T06:43:00.000-08:00

Meet the slowest part of your computer, the Hard Drive.

The Hard Drive is a rewritable disc that contains your computers operating system, program files and personal files (like documents, pictures, etc).

So, why is it the slowest part of your computer?

The answer, moving parts. Any device that functions via moving parts is much much slower than non-moving devices such as RAM, Processors and Data Buses.

How does the hard drive work?

Hard Drives consist of a magnetic disc (also called a platter) that is spun at a very high rate. During this spinning process an "arm" is moved up and down across the disk writting patterns of 0's and 1's which form your data. This arm also reads data in the same fasion.

SATA Interface
SATA Interface
EIDE Interface
EIDE Interface

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Can I speed my hard drive up?

No. Your hard drive is as fast as it's going to get. Hard Drive performance is measured in RPM's (revolutions per minute). The more RPM's the disc (or platter) is spun at the faster data can be read and/or written.

You're not "stuck" with the hard drive you have now, it can be upgraded. Upgrading the hard drive can be tricky because you can make 1 mistake that can wipe out all your personal data.

So, what kind of hard drive should you get?

First, you need to find out what type of hard drive you have: SATA or EIDE (PATA). Next, look at the RPM's. The RPM's should be at least 7200 RPM. Finally make sure the hard drive is the same size as your current drive or larger.

Related topics of interest...

Not Enough Memory - And How to Get More
Why Your Computer is Slow: Is it Processor

Not Enough Memory - And How To Get More!

2009-02-20T06:38:00.000-08:00

First, what is RAM anyway?

What RAM (Memory) Looks Like

RAM physically looks like a 4 inch circuit board with tightly packed microchips. These RAM "sticks" easily snap into your motherboard making upgrades really easy!

What RAM (Memory) Does
RAM (or Random Access Memory) is temporary storage for executable program code (your programs like Microsoft Word). When the processor becomes free and is ready to process more program code (MS Word for Example) it looks to RAM and basically says "give me something to process". The RAM then "feeds" the processor as much information as the processor can take.

When you have enough RAM...

* The more RAM your computer has the more programs your computer can run at the same time without experiencing drastic slow downs
* More RAM also means you'll be hearing a lot less of that annoying hard drive crunching noise!
* Your computers startup time and post startup time is drastically reduced

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Below are some symptoms of not having enough RAM:

* slow program execution
* almost non-stop hard drive activity
* seeing lots of the hour glass
* horrible startup times

How much RAM do you need for your PC? Well obviously more is better, but here are minimum requirements I give my clients:

* Windows XP - 512 Megabytes minimum
* Windows Vista - 2 Gigabytes minimum

Here's how to find out how much RAM your PC has:

1. Right-Click "My Computer" in XP or "Computer" in Vista
2. Click Properties
3. You can see your RAM value in this windows either in GB or MB

Related Topics of Interest

Do You Have a Slow or Damaged Hard Drives
Why Your Computer is Slow: Is it Processor

Why Your Computer Is Slow: Is it Processor

2009-02-20T06:28:00.000-08:00

Your computers processor (A.K.A the CPU or Central Processing Unit) is what actually performs all the work. It can calculatate billions of operations per second. The CPU executes program code and returns results to ram and/or hard disk.

So, the faster the processor and the more cores it has the faster your programs will execute and return results. If your processor is slow, or just not fast enough for you then it's time to upgrade.

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There are hundreds of processors on the market and more being created every day. In order for you to upgrade your processor you must consult your computers motherboard documentation to see what type of processor your computer uses. Once you have acquired that information you can visit your local\online computer store and order a processor upgrade.

Upgrading the processor is delicate task and should only be performed by a competent professional. If you're feel'in brave and would like to upgrade your CPU without someones help check out the videos below.

Related Topics You Would Like to Read

Not Enough Memory - And How to Get More
Is Your Hard Drive Slow or is it Damaged

Why to opt for Computer Support Services?

2009-02-11T04:53:00.000-08:00

With technology growing day by day, there is a craze among people to embrace it like anything. But, the increasing complexities create hassles. However, the solution is on hand now. It is computer support services, a gamut of services offering assistance with computers and allied products. Their round the clock availability attract tech enthusiasts towards them. In general, computer support services aim at helping the users solve specific problems with their PCs and not providing training and customization.

computer support has many advantages. It increases users’ efficiency by permitting remote human resources to securely access data from anywhere anytime. Moreover, it saves time as well as money. You need not call any technician at your premises or take appointments weeks ago. This eliminates a need for prohibitive manual intervention. Computer enthusiasts are fast embracing remote support services as these are 24x7.

Whether you are bothered by nasty computer virus, every minute pop-up ads/windows, Windows errors, email client error, computer support providers have solutions for all. The technicians meet you online, remote access your PC, diagnose, and troubleshoot it on the spot. Though, the person owning the computer uses it as himself, apart from the fact that operations are controlled online.

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There are many such companies available on the Internet which deals with remote support for computer hardware as well. However, this can be limited to computer printer, scanner, and other computer connected machines. Well! Not all problems and computer errors can be fixed using computer support services. It is of no use for computers suffering from physical damage or which deny being rebooted.

Moreover, these remote computer support services are highly helpful to gain technical acquaintance. As you see your problems getting sort out online, they quickly boost your knowledge of all hardware in your PC. Computer support can be delivered over the phone as well as via the Internet.

Computer Repair Cross list for PC Users

2009-02-11T02:12:00.000-08:00

When your desktop computer or laptop breaks down, many of us turn to the computer techs and support assistance for help. But if you’re not careful, you could be scared into spending more than you need.

Here are some of the tips to share some common advice in this post, the next time you encounter problems with your computer.

1. Get to Know Your Computer
memory
hard drive
video/sound card
operating system
It's always good idea to keep records… and not necessarily on your computer.

2. Try to Fix It Yourself
Ok - it may sound scary, but try to reach out for on-line forums or support center help desks to find out what could possibly be wrong with your computer. Even if you don't figure it out, you would at least be more informed when you make the visit to the professionals… and fill more comfortable.

3. Back Up Your Own Data
This is important. You should always back up your data. Not only do you save yourself a lot of headache, but you would be saving a lot of money. Many computer repair services charge for backing up your data.

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4. Look for Certified Techs
CCNA
MCSE (Microsoft Cert. Systems Engineer)
MCP (Microsoft Cert. Professional)

We have required proprietary levels of training to ensure the quality of our Agents and their work. “Many of our technicians hold one or more of these different types of industry certifications including MCP, a Microsoft Certified Professional designation that requires over 20 hours of training. All of the iYogi Technical Services technicians that serve customers remotely (over the phone and internet) have at least basic certification, mentioned above.

Experience the Technology with you IT Support Partner

2009-02-05T06:03:00.000-08:00

Having a computer problem is not a new one to realize about, it is something we come with time and again and some time really don’t have a clue about what is it which has gone wrong. Today we breathe in a very technically complex world, which means that we cannot hide or run away with such situation and have to confront them on the front foot when ever such an issue comes across.

So, what is the rescue way out here, well there are some on whom you can count on they are the IT Support companies, and talking about them this type of support is necessary and have becomes a break through for our tech experiences. IT support is also known as technical support and it is basically the process of providing assistance with technology related products such as computers, printer, mp3, digital video recorders, and even cell phones.

The sole aim of these type of services is to provide consumers with the solutions they need when they are having a problem with a product that they purchased. Most companies today offer tech support; in fact many offer it for free.

When you buy a product it usually comes with information and in this information you will usually find a toll free number that you can call for help. You can call for questions about how to use the product or if you have having trouble getting it to work properly you can call and they can help, too.

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Telephone services were the most common way to get this sort of assistance in the past but in recent years it has become common for these services to be offered not only on the phone but also through email or even through an interactive website.
If you don't feel that the support provided over the phone would be enough, you don’t have to go this route. You may be able to get all of the support that you need in person, though this would mean that the provider has an office or storefront in your local area.

If you don’t mind paying for the service you will generally find that there are fee based services that will provide you with all of the help that you need, and more! In addition to trouble shooting with you these premium services may also make customization and training available to you too.

The great thing about this sort of service is that it can be as simple or as in depth as you want it to be. Many a times your question can be answered in a matter of seconds or minutes and other times you will find that the individual that you get on the line to help you is happy to spend hours with you on the phone or through email to provide you with the tech solutions that you need to utilize the product.

Every help desk is different, but generally you will find all of the information and support that you need through them. Don’t be afraid to call back multiple times if you don’t get the answers that you need the first time around, as this is what these services are there for!

Are you fed up of your computers slow speed?

2009-02-01T23:25:00.000-08:00

Are you fed up of your computers slow speed? Computer optimization is an answer for you

The worst thing to experience with your personal computer is that weird slow performance, where you keep on hogging for the program execution. Well! The case is not just of an individual every one now and then has got fed up with such scenario it not only you. There are thousands more looking out for solutions to boost up their PCs rate of performance. You buy a new computer and soon it does not come up with the same efficiency. Sometimes, you just expect too much perhaps. But all too often, the computer is really slow. But why?

Over time, all data and files keep on accumulating on your hard disk thereby making a mess there. Thanks to computer support companies which are capable enough to reverse these irksome problems and bring your machine back to life! Here, you can help your computer run with the fast speed. Your support technicians greatly increase your PC speed by performing steps like cleaning up and defragmenting disks and the Registry, removing bloated software, and applying performance tweak.

However, results may vary on different computers and factors like your computer usage and maintenance. But you will certainly find computer optimization services worth your money! When you optimize your compute, you save approximately 10 to 30 minutes a day which you used to spend combating with nasty computer problems. Also, your improved computer will prevent you from having technicians look at it every other day thereby saving you lot of dollars.

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Availing computer optimization services from technical support companies is an ideal solution for every computer user who wants to boost his/her computer for peak performance without costly hardware upgrades.

With a plethora of computer support resources available online, you can call or book your computer optimization service round the clock, and have expert technicians at your service in no time. The support available at these resources is not limited to just one or two computer repair services but they have got the complete array to offer. Those who have tried these online tech services have found these resources extremely beneficial for lost data recovery, computer troubleshooting, virus removal, spy ware removal, antivirus installation or configuration, internet optimization etc. They boast to offer professional, friendly advice and services to get your computer up and resolve your computer issues.

What if someday you just woke up and find all your computer files vanished away?

2009-01-20T01:14:00.000-08:00

What if someday you just woke up and find all your computer files vanished away? Everybody who has been using computers for quite sometime may have encountered numerous pesky errors like blue screen of death. Whether the problem includes software or hard drive, you can actually pull yourself through the mess. Thinking how? Simply with the help of online technical support services.

Whether it's about troubleshooting PC errors or internet optimization or computer optimization or any other, the tech support is just a call away nowadays. The simplicity of these services has helped the technical support company to grow rapidly. Tech support services either online or by phone are very affordable, especially if the users have valid warranties. You can locate numerous online computer repair specialists by using simple keywords like technical support, computer support, online computer support etc on the Internet.

In spite of paying technicians for their home or office visit every time your computer gets a problem, you can avail exclusive support services for a one time payment. That's again just possible with online computer support companies. They keep on bringing different support packages including a comprehensive array of services for a one low price. Since computer gaining importance and becoming critical to our everyday lives, you can't take any risk with your PC's functionality.

After narrowing down on the shortlisted results, you can visit each website to have a good idea about the services they undertake.

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A remote computer repair person watches everything on a PC screen while working on your problem. Technology has advanced so much that you can even assume control anytime, just in case you feel that there is a breach of security. In certain cases, the instructions are given from a remote location and you follow these instructions to repair your computer. Most of the remote computer repairers disconnect the connection program, until and unless you want to reinstall the program for future use. Although the entire method is popular, it is always preferable that you get good references from the remote repairing company. This way you will able to verify their credentials better and ensure the safety of your data.

Remote computer repair is of great help in things like computer optimization support spyware removal, troubleshooting, virus and pest removal, software installation, up gradation, cleaning up of disk, and PC optimization. Needless to say, the success rate is also pretty high when it comes to remote computer repair. Another advantage with remote computer repair lies in the fact that it will save you money in the long run, since the technicians are working from their own location.

curtsy:- Technical Support Services

Resolve your tech worries with a single call

2009-01-19T02:26:00.000-08:00

Visualize yourself functioning on an awfully important project and then upset by a technical default in your pc. The instant can be extremely frustrating. However, you can now get tech support online, through do-it-yourself programs. This not only saves your time but money as well, which is why more and more companies running operations on small and large scale prefer to beef up their electronic support offerings.

Of all computer savys, small business owners and computer enthusiasts working from home or using PCs for fun are benefitted most from computer support services. The best part of using live tech support is that the owner controls the actions taken on his/her system.

Calling any technical support executive at your premises can make you spend loads of dollars unnecessarily. Contrary to this, online tech support services offer a comprehensive package of efficient solutions at incredible prices. Companies offering such kind of tech-help generally have different yearly packages that are budgets-friendly too. Such an array of options is largely available for small business PC support.

Availing online computer support has proven to be cost efficient for small-scale operations. With significant advances have been done in recent years, technology assisted programs have tended to be associated with huge success. Small scale businesses based in the US, UK, and Canada are largely leveraging the online PC support services to transform their business for consistent results as their computer complexities increase.

Small businesses understand the necessity and headaches of the advanced technology. A desire for smooth functioning encourages a need for them to get their mundane computer repair and tech support issues handled in a user friendly manner.

Companies providing tech support offers high-touch customer experience which allows you to sit back and watch your problem getting resolved within an hour. Small businesses can avail the benefits of the online tech support for PC repair to ensure smooth functioning of operating systems in order to perform their individual roles and responsibilities in the most effective manner.

Online computer support allows computer problem fixed immediately

2009-01-16T04:37:00.000-08:00

If you are having issues with your desktop or laptop and wondering about which procedure to take up, you may give a try to computer support services as they can be of great help to you.

Nowadays, calling a tech support does not mean ending in frustration. Gone are the days when you were left on hold for longer than necessary. Now, there is no infuriating system that requires you to press one for this and press two for that or any support worker talking in anon-understandable jargon. Thanks to remote Computer Support which is completely a new idea in computer maintenance.

Remote or online computer support allows us to get your computer problem fixed immediately instead of you waiting for an appointment. It saves you money because there is no minimum charge and you can get those nasty and irksome errors fixed in no time. This certainly helps you to add to your productivity at a reasonable price, instead of forcing you to suffer for weeks or months.

With online computer support services at your side, you can easily say goodbye to expensive technicians who charge per incident or per hour. People who have experienced these services found them extremely helpful to troubleshoot software problems. Starting out with simple issues such as those of installation of any software programs to critical like fixing blue screen of death error, you can contact these computer support workers for anything related to your PC.

Since online computer support services eliminate a need for you to haul your computer to any local PC repair shop, you save time as well. It is the simplest, cheapest yet the most self sufficient service for tech savvy consumers and small business to fix any software errors. Also, the user can dissolve the support session anytime if s/he feels any security violation. Offering the user to control actions taken on their system, online computer support helps users to increase to get acquainted with the intricacies involved with their PCs and increase their computer knowledge.

Services such as Online PC repair, on site computer services and other online computer support services are not only available to the general public but small businesses are also finding them helpful and affordable enough.

Get your pc fix with online technical support

2009-01-15T05:23:00.000-08:00

Get help fast and maintain your privacy. Once you know how fast, easy and cheap it is to use remote technical support for live online computer help, you will never ever like to run after the traditional methods for getting your PC repaired.

You will never require dealing with an expensive technician for the sake of your computer. Remote computer support workers can make out the quickest and easiest ways to fix your computer problems over the Internet.

Online technical support gives you a chance to learn more about your PC. You can not only learn about adorning your desktop but also how to fix computer problems like eliminating the virus, removing spyware, increase your computer's speed or maintain your laptop.

You do not need to schedule an appointment: online tech support technicians solve the problem right away. The remote troubleshooting repair person fixed the errors by connecting a connection to your PC, user name and password. The person who owns a computer uses such as himself, apart from the fact that it is checked on the Internet. The technology is being adopted by most people because it saves them and eliminating a need for you to haul your system anywhere to get it repaired. Another advantage is of those lower costs.

Online computer repair services are very cost effective and usually come along with a ‘No Fix No Fee’ policy which means that customers need not pay if the problem is not solved. These repairs are popular in the form of technical support, online help and computer technical support. With an increase in the number of these online resources, support companies are offering support at extremely competitive prices to sell more and more products and services.

Although online computer repair is gaining in popularity, but it cannot be used for every kind of damage. There can be no relief for computer equipment with physical damage. But you can avail it to resolve most of your PC woes. So what are you waiting for then. In case, you are looking for the effective solutions to keep computer blues at bay, search for a good online computer support company

Explore the advantages of Technical Support Services

2009-01-12T06:25:00.000-08:00

With an increase in use of technology oriented products, there is an equal increase in a need for technical support. There are hundreds of technical support centers dedicated to offer technical support to users having problems with their tech products or applications at cost effective rates. There has also been a growth in companies specializing in outsourcing technical support.

For corporate and small businesses that need providing technical support, outsourcing provides them with an ability to maintain high availability of services. It allows business to concentrate more on their work in order to maintain productivity than always looking out ways for solving technical problems. It also enables them to leverage out the benefits of specialized technicians whose technical knowledge base and experience may surpass the scope of the business, thereby providing a higher level of technical support services.

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Technical support resources provide support services to thousands of customers through multiple modes such as email, chat, voice and remote desktop connection. These days, terms like online computer repair, remote tech support, online IT services, and contact centers for technical services are extensively used to refer to dedicated companies that systematically handle the entire spectrum of technical or computer help services.

Technical support resources provide their customers with strategic values by increasing customer satisfaction and offering cost effective services, thereby saving time and money.

With increasing intricacies in using latest technology, technical support resources are being seen serving as an essential part of the service function. They bring multiple resources together to fix technical errors and are emerging into an integrated service desk.

Small home businesses and individual computer users are fast exploring the benefits of technical centers as they provide them a single point of contact for all their computer needs. Moreover, they get other add-ons like improved service quality, affordable rates and an opportunity to eliminate a need to hire a full time IT staff. These technical help centers have got the highly qualified support workers who are available round the clock to provide customers technical support within agreed-upon response times and levels of quality. Unlike local computer repair technicians, your online support worker will not rush you through the troubleshooting process. In fact, they take a rigorous approach towards resolving your issues.

Why to decide on in favor of going with Technical Support Services?

2008-12-30T06:36:00.000-08:00

The world is getting crazy for the technology day by day, there is a craze among people to clinch it like whatever thing. But, the mounting complexities generate hassles. However, the resolution is on hand now. It is computer support services, a breadth of services offering assistance with computers and associated products. Their round the clock accessibility attract tech enthusiasts towards them. In general, computer support services aim at helping the users solve specific problems with their PCs and not providing training and customization.

Computer support has several advantages. It increases users’ effectiveness by permitting remote human resources to securely access data from anywhere anytime. Moreover, it saves time as well as money. You need not call any technician at your location or take schedule weeks ago. This eliminates a need for prohibitive blue-collar intervention. Computer enthusiasts are fast embracing remote support services as these are 24x7.

Whether you are bothered by malicious computer virus, every minute pop-up ads/windows, Windows errors, email client error, computer support providers have solutions for all. The technicians meet you online, remote access your PC, diagnose, and troubleshoot it on the spot. Though, the person owning the computer uses it as himself, away from each other from the fact that operations are controlled online.

There are many such companies accessible on the Internet which deals with remote support services for computer hardware as well. However, this can be restricted to computer printer, scanner, and other computer connected machines. Well! Not all problems and computer errors can be fixed using computer support services. It is of no use for computers suffering from physical damage or which deny being rebooted.

Moreover, these online technical support services are highly helpful to gain technical acquaintance. As you see your problems getting sort out online, they quickly boost your knowledge of all hardware in your PC. Technical support can be delivered over the phone as well as via the Internet.

Online technical support is the simplest, cheapest yet the most self satisfactory service

2008-12-26T05:51:00.000-08:00

Online technical support is the simplest, cheapest yet the most self satisfactory service for tech savvy customers and corporate sectors to sort out any kind of software defaults. Offering the user to control actions taken on their system, tech-support enhances the users' computer knowledge. Almost 90% problems in a Computer are caused because of software Errors or Defaults.

Each and every single software problems can readily be resolved by online technical support executive, who are highly trained technicians and certified. Most online vendors providing tech support use breakthrough technologies like "high-touch experience" which enable their tech-executives to fix computer problems without delay. It also helps the users to upgrade their own level of acquaintance with computers. In this case, the user needs to give some basic information about identity of his/her PC to the remote user repairing the PC online. All the information passed to the technician is as secure as online bank transactions.

Online Technical Support is available everywhere, not to mention the convenience of contacting the technicians over the Internet and getting the service you want for your PC. Perhaps this is one of the reasons why so many computer enthusiasts are fast turning towards online technical support solution to fix their PC errors.

The Technical personal giving online technical support for computer repair use dedicated software to securely access your computer and evaluate it. The computer repair technician meets you online and takes control of your mouse and keyboard, after seeking your authorization for his acts.

The general online technical support services include treating virus infected computers, registry repair and fix to increasing the computer's speed, troubleshooting the system, configuring PCs, virus scanning and removing spyware or providing the user with specialized expert advice on a variety of technical issues.

Online technical support is most supportive for persons who are new to the world of computers and require some assistance with setting up especially internet and network set-up. The users can also sign up for regular health check up of their computer's to ensure optimum working efficiency.

Do you feel a need for technical support ?

2008-12-23T01:53:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for realistic solutions for your technical support needs? With a surfeit of technical support services available online, you don't need to spend your time and energy in useless things.

You can use within a minute of calling online technical support resource; you will be connected to a real person holding enormous knowledge and specialization in resolving computer issues. Whether you are at home or office, you are offered with immediate support solutions.

Technical support has become an urgent need for today's tech savvy consumers. Even computer enthusiasts find themselves in such situations where they want to have technical support at side to help them with their technical confusions. Traditional methods of resolving PC errors rely on consulting with computer manuals available online or you end up with an expensive computer technician.

At online tech support resources, there are experts to provide you with computer technical support on a one-on-one basis through a secure desktop connection or get live PC support by simply picking up the phone. You can also ask them the proven tips on how to install and manage new software/hardware or operating systems, troubleshoot PC errors, and to optimize the performance of a computer.

Pc Technicians offering computer troubleshooting support follow a step-by-step method for tracking down software or hardware errors and fixing them quickly.

Users can get proper computer help from experienced pc help desk professionals in interactive sessions. Pc Support services include manufacturer specific support such as HP Compaq help, Dell help, Microsoft help and more. Virus removal, Spyware removal and Windows troubleshooting are also our main areas of computer support proficiency.

No matter where you have bought your computer from, you can avail support for all. These online technical support resources serve as one stop shop for all your PC support requirements along with round the clock availability. The spectrum includes everything ranging from fixing computer trouble, virus removal, spyware removal, PC security services, online data back up to printer support, scanner support and multimedia device support.

Dell is a prominent brand choice for laptops and desktop computers online.

2008-12-22T03:35:00.000-08:00

Dell Computers are one of the foremost brands for laptops and desktop computers online. Dell offers a extensive range of computer products, catering for all home, gaming and business needs.

Dell was established in 1984 by Michael Dell, the computer industry's longest-tenured chief executive officer, on a simple concept: that by selling computer systems directly to customers, Dell could best understand their needs and efficiently provide the most effective computing solutions to meet those needs.

This direct business model eliminates retailers that add unnecessary time and cost, or can diminish Dell's understanding of customer expectations. The direct model allows the company to build every system to order and offer customers powerful, richly-configured computer systems at competitive prices.

Dell Computers also introduces the latest relevant technology much more quickly than companies with slow-moving, indirect distribution channels, turning over inventory every four days on average. The Dell Effect For more than 20 years, Dell has revolutionized the industry to make computing accessible to customers around the globe, including businesses, institutional organizations and individual consumers.

Because of Dell's direct model and the industry's response to its information technology is more powerful, easier to use and more affordable, giving customers the opportunity to take advantage of powerful new tools to improve their businesses and personal lives with Dell computers. Nearly one out of every five standards-based computer system sold in the world today is a Dell.

Some of the computer products and computer support services that dell support offer are: Workstations Dell Precision desktop and mobile workstations are intended for professional users who demand exceptional performance to run sophisticated applications, such as three-dimensional computer-aided design, digital content creation, geographic information systems, computer animation, software development and financial analysis.

Online Technical Support - An Easy Way to Get Support

2008-12-19T06:34:00.000-08:00

Buying a technology product like computer systems is relatively easier than retaining them in the right manner. Under some situations where technical dilemmas may overcome, it sometimes becomes extremely difficult to handle complicated issues which underline reasons for the need of expert advice. With a plethora of online computer support resources available on the Internet, you do not need to waste your time in searching the best for your PC. Here, you find technicians who take over all aspects of your computer support requirements and offer one call computer consulting solution.

Maintaining computer systems properly is not an easy task and needs high level of expertise. Properly maintained and repaired computers not only add to your productivity but also increase your PCs longevity. If you run a small scale business, well being of your computer play more important role. And employing latest technological PC solutions and services can turn to be the key to success as this helps in taking your business to the next level of success.

Online technical support centers perform efficiently serving the technical needs of its customers. It offers networking solutions to corporate, small as well as medium strength businesses. PC maintenance services help customers to handle and deal with their computer maintenance problems. In addition, it offers complete elasticity, cost-effectiveness, and practical IT solutions that help your business grow. Online computer support resources also assess everything in your existing PCs and make proper arrangements to rectify any issues later on.

Although our main concern is to employ a reasonably priced service so that you can run general research whenever needed but quality also matters. No amount of time or money is enough for your computers safety. You can search of thousands cost effective technical support centers on the Web. It is suggested that you should first compare services before narrowing down on any source. You can get a fair idea about services and prices by visiting the vendors website.

source: Remote Computer Support

Be concious with your Internet Explorer inclination

2008-12-18T05:11:00.000-08:00

If you are using Internet Explorer you are asking for a trouble these day because it has officially being conveyed that IE is experiencing threat from hacker and a flaw in IE has been exposed. Currently the hacker's are merely using it to gain access over the password for online gaming short of thing but the vulnerability can be quite higher than what it looks like. As the loop hole exposed can be used to gain full control of your system.

The article from telegraph is here and what it talks about for further details..

The "zero day" flaw allows hackers to gain access to the computers of visitors to infected websites, jeopardising the security of passwords, bank details and other personal information. It is believed that as many as 233,000 web pages have been affected.

Microsoft says its "critical" update will protect users. Christopher Budd, of the software giant's security centre, said the company "encourages all Internet Explorer customers to test and deploy this update as soon as possible".

Mike Reavey, also from the security centre, said: "Even with that, the release Emergency Response process isn't over. There is additional support to customers and additional refinement of our product development efforts."

Microsoft has said that the flaw has been proven to exist only in version 7 of Internet Explorer, but that version 6 and the "beta" release of version 8 are also "potentially vulnerable".

It has estimated that one in every 500 Windows users has been exposed to websites that attempt to exploit the flaw, and that the number of victims was increasing by 50 per cent every day.

Paul Ferguson, a researcher from the software security company Trend Micro, told the BBC that attacks were spreading "like wildfire".

"This vulnerability is being actively exploited by cyber-criminals and getting worse every day," Mr Ferguson said.

The update is available at Security Update for Internet Explorer (960714)

Top 10 Tips to Keep yourself safe at Hotspots

2008-12-15T02:33:00.000-08:00

It’s Wi-Fi era we are into but really are we truly comfortable and secure enough to take on the Wi-Fi. When I say that what it means is whenever you connected at a hotspot, you are asking for trouble because hotspots are structured as a open networks that don't use encryption, which invites hacking and snooping. In addition, when you're on a hotspot you are connected to the same network as your fellow hotspot users, they can potentially weasel their way onto your PC and wreak damage.

But do not let that discourage you from connecting. There's plenty you can do to keep yourself safe at hotspots. Here are some of the tips which can be summed up as a secure way out to get you going at the hotspots.

1. Disable Wi-Fi ad-hoc mode Wi-Fi runs in two modes: infrastructure mode, which you use when you connect to a network; and ad-hoc mode, when you connect directly to another PC. If you've enabled ad-hoc mode, there's a chance that someone near you can establish an ad-hoc connection to you without your knowledge, and they'll then have free reign in your PC. So when you're in a hotspot, make sure that ad-hoc mode is turned off.

You can implement it right here by Right-click the wireless icon in the System Tray and Choose Status Click Properties in the Properties tab Select the Wireless Networks tab from here Select your current network connection now, Click Properties, then click the Association tab Uncheck the box next to "This is a computer-to-computer (ad hoc) network" and for a final work done click OK

2. Use a wireless Virtual Private Network (VPN) when you're at a hotspot, anyone nearby with a sniffer can see all the packets you send and receive. This means they can see your passwords, user names, email anything you do online. A great way to protect you is with a wireless VPN that encrypts all the information you send and receive when you're online, so you'll be free from snoopers.

3. Use an encrypted USB flash drive For maximum protection of your data, use a clean laptop that only has an operating system applications on it, and put all of the data you're taking with you on an encrypted USB flash drive. Many flash drives include encryption features. That way, even if someone somehow gets into your PC, they won't be able to read or alter any of your data. (How to boot a USB flash drive in floppy mode)

4. Use a personal firewall. A firewall will protect you from anyone trying to break into your PC, and can also protect any spyware or Trojans on your PC from making outbound connections. The XP firewall offers only one-way protection; it doesn't stop outbound connections. So for maximum security, don't rely on XP's firewall. (Importance of Windows Firewall Support)

5. Turn off file sharing It's fine to enable file sharing on your home network. But doing it at a public hotspot invites any of your close-by latte drinkers to start slurping files off your system. To turn it off. Turn it off by running Windows Explorer, right-clicking on the drive or folders you normally share, choosing Sharing and Security, and unchecking the box next to "Share this folder on the network."

6. Make sure the hotspot is a legitimate one One of the latest hotspot scams is for someone to set up a hotspot themselves in a public location or cafe, and when you connect, steal your personal information, or ask you to type in sensitive information in order to log in. So before connecting at a hotspot, ask someone at the counter of the cafe the name of the hotspot, because someone may have set up another one, in the hopes of luring in the unwary.

7. Disable or remove your wireless adapter if you're working offline. Just because you're at a hotspot doesn't necessarily mean that you have to connect to the Internet -- you may want to work offline. If that's the case, remove your wireless card. If you instead have a wireless adapter built into your laptop, disable it. In XP, right-click the wireless icon, and choose Disable. If you're using the adapter's software to manage your connection, check the laptop on how to disable it.

8. Use email encryption Much email software includes encryption features that encrypt messages and attachments. So turn on email encryption when you're at a hotspot. In Outlook 2003, select Options from the Tools menu, click the Security tab, and then check the box next to "Encrypt contents and attachments for outgoing messages." Then click OK.

9. Look over your shoulder Sniffers and hacking techniques aren't required for someone to steal your user names and passwords(creating secure password). Someone only needs to peer over your shoulder to watch what you're typing. So make sure no one snoops on you as you computer.

10. Don't leave your laptop alone Had too many lattes and need to hit the rest room? Don't leave your laptop behind. Laptop thefts are getting increasingly common at hotspots. In fact, San Francisco has been subject to a hotspot crime wave of sorts, with thieves even grabbing people's laptops while they were using them. Some hotspots have responded by including a port to which you can lock your laptop via a laptop lock.

Its Time to Renovate Your Computer

2008-12-10T01:35:00.000-08:00

Once you get away from the appeal of owning a brand new pc, could you have spent that money on rather something else? Here are 10 things you can do to give your pc a makeover instead of buying new:

1. Consult an Expert -- For a fraction of the cost of a new computer, online tech support hotlines like BluePhone, iYogi Online Technical Support and Firedog are helping consumers get the maximum out of their tech gear, with great advice including: how to restore your system and settings; setting up a wireless network; walking-through a new accounting package; or how to organize photos into a digital scrapbook.

2. Computer tune-up -- Optimize system settings to restore your PC's performance and speed to its near original state -- for example by scanning registry and program files items can be removed that cause slow performance and application errors.

3. Security -- Make sure you have the latest security software to protect against unwanted spyware, adware, and malware that can slow system performance and create security holes.

4. Upgrade existing software -- Popular software applications are constantly being updated -- get current by downloading and installing the latest versions.

5. Uninstall unused/unnecessary software -- Identify and delete software you aren't using to avoid potential subscription costs and free up system resources that may slow your computers performance.

6. Online backup -- Set up and transfer files to online backup services that free up space on your hard disk drive allowing other applications to run faster.

7. Hardware upgrades -- By simply increasing your system's RAM you can significantly improve performance -- with little out-of-pocket expense.

8. Update current drivers for peripherals -- Out-of-date drivers may cause peripherals to function incorrectly or not at all -- easily corrected by downloading latest versions.

9. Upgrade and Enhance -- Use funds instead to upgrade or add-on, for example: a wireless keyboard, digital camera, wide-screen monitor, or MP3player.

10. Skip Vista -- wait for Windows 7 -- If you still decide to buy, wait for a system that will ship with Windows 7 -- Microsoft is giving up on Vista and Windows XP will no longer be supported. In the meantime, join a personal support hotline so you can work with experts to keep your computer fast-running, up-to-date, and working like new.

Google Has Launched New Toolbar with Some Exciting Features

2008-10-30T07:44:00.000-07:00

In coming November Google toolbar will turn eight years old. To celebrate the occasion, the company has launched a new version for Internet
Explorer.

The new version which is launching out of beta is available in 40 languages. With the new tool bar IT and internet users can synchronize their settings online to access their Toolbar from wherever they are.

Following features are new and it can be found in this latest version :-

Custom Buttons

It will also have the option for users to add buttons to their Toolbar that will let them visit and search their favorite websites and keep up with interesting feeds. Google's Button Gallery offers a selection of ready-made buttons for popular sites, and users can make also their own buttons by right-clicking within the search box on any site.

Auto Fill

Create multiple profiles in Auto Fill to keep your business and personal information separate.

Translate Your Web Page

To translate a non-English web pages into English? Just select "Translate this page" from the Toolbar's Translate menu to view French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Chinese (simplified), Japanese and Korean pages in English.
Users can also use the WordTranslator feature to translate English words on a web page into another language.

Enhanced Search Box

As users type a search query into the new Tool bar's search box, they will see a list of useful suggestions based on popular Google searches like tech support,computer support,pc support etc, spelling corrections as well as their own Toolbar search history and bookmarks.
Users can also click the `G' icon in the search box to search different Google sites, the current site, or sites for which they have installed custom search buttons.

Is $800 Apple laptop is going to hurt Microsoft?

2008-10-13T06:50:00.000-07:00

Just when the Windows marketing team thought things probably couldn’t get much worse, there’s word that Apple may be gearing up to launch a new Macbook with a low-end $800 price point.

One of the biggest selling points for new Vista PCs is price. There are more than a few decent Vista laptops out there for under $1,000.

Apple’s PC marketshare is hovering around eight to nine percent in the U.S. For many, Apple machines are still just too expensive — even though the lowest end Macbooks can be had for about $1, 099. But if users could get an Apple laptop for $800, I’d think many would think longer and harder about whether to go with Windows or Mac OS X.

Microsoft — and its PC partners — aren’t sitting idly by waiting for Apple to eat its lunch. Microsoft execs have stated repeatedly that the company, going forward, is working more closely with OEMs to create better out-of-the-box experiences for Windows PC users. It sounds like this will go beyond reducing and/or removing crapware.

There are other projects hatching in other groups at Microsoft, too. Microsoft Corporate Vice President Bill Mitchell and his PC|3 team, which is part of Microsoft’s Core Operating System Division (COSD), is working on “improving the mobile PC experience” for users in the developed and developing worlds both. From what little I’ve heard about PC|3, it sounds like at least part of its mission involves picking up where the Ultra-Mobile PC (UMPC) folks at Microsoft left off.

Microsoft has been mum on when/how/if it can get Vista and its successors to run on ultra-low-cost PCs (ULPCs). Currently, because of system requirements, Microsoft allows ULPC makers to ship with Windows XP, not Vista, and will do so through 2010. Given that magic 2010 cut-off date, I’d expect that the Windows team is working to produce some Windows 7 SKU that will be customized to run on ULPC systems.

Don’t forget, coming up from the other end of the market, there’s also a skunkworks effort inside Microsoft to port Windows Mobile to Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs). No word on what’s happening on that front….

If Apple does, indeed field an $800 laptop, do you think Microsoft will lose much market share? What else should and could Microsoft be doing to steel itself for a possible Apple price attack?

Google's Chrome: 7 Reasons Against It

2008-10-10T05:31:00.000-07:00

Following are the Seven Reasons that can go against Google Chrome:-

1. It's Only In Its First Beta.

This is Chrome's first test release, so problems are bound to crop up over the coming months. If like most people you rely heavily on Web browsing, you run a risk by putting your online life into the hands of an unproven product. Visits to some plug-in-oriented sites such as logmein.com have generated errors ("This application has failed to start because xpcom.dll was not found..."). Do you want to deal with that kind of uncertainty daily?

2. You Won't Have Any Add-ons.

Add-ons are a huge draw for Firefox fans, and none of these are available in Chrome yet. Google does intend to create an API for such extensions, but for now you'll have to make do without your AdBlocks, Better Gmails, and BugMeNots--or you'll have to switch between browsers to use the add-ons you want when you want them.

3. You Can't Synchronize.
One big plus of Firefox is its ability to synchronize across multiple computers using Mozilla's Weave option. This arrangement allows you to keep your home browser, your laptop browser, and your work browser looking identical at all times--and once you get used to that level of synchronization, it's hard to give up. Chrome doesn't yet have that capability.

4. You May Draw The Short Stick On Standards.

Standards get a little less standard as this new player enters the equation. It's based on WebKit, the same open-source system that drives Apple's Safari; but when you look at pages in Chrome compared to pages in Firefox or IE, you'll notice a difference in text formatting. And since most sites give coding priority to the market leader, you might be setting yourself up for disappointment with Chrome.

5. You're Giving Advertisers Extra Ammo.

Have you seen all the hype about Google's privacy practices and how much of your data it shares with advertisers? Imagine the potential ammo you're giving it by using this browser. Google will now have total control over your experience from the time you open Chrome to the time you shut down. In some sense, you might just as well invite DoubleClick to watch over your shoulder while you surf.

6. The Dropdown Bar Is Dropped.

The idea of the URL dropdown bar is dropped in Chrome. To compensate, the browser offers "intelligent" features in its Omnibox; but if you like being able to see your recent URLs at the click of a button, you'll miss the dropdown bar.

7. You Lose Some History Power.

Chrome's History functions are less versatile than the powerhouse ones built by Firefox. Chrome offers only a simple screen showing your day-by-day history. The ability to sort everything by date, site, or most visited appear to have joined the distaff and spindle on the ash heap.

So there you have it: the good, the bad, and the ambiguous of Google's first foray into browsing. You've heard the hype; now, the decision is yours. Whose campaign will you be joining?

Seven Reasons Chrome Could Be Cool

2008-10-10T04:53:00.000-07:00

Below are the top seven reasons to use Google Chrome:-

1. It won't Crash.

Perhaps Chrome's biggest draw is its multiprocess architecture, which, in a nutshell, protects you from having a bad Web page or application take your browser down. Every tab, window, and plug-in runs in its own environment--so one faulty site won't affect anything else that you have open. This approach also adds another layer of security by isolating each site and application within a limited environment.

2. It's Really Fast.

Again because of the multiprocess foundation, one slow site won't drag down the rest of your browsing. Instead, you can effortlessly click to another tab or window. With plug-ins, the arrangement works similarly: If you open a site that has a slow-loading Java ad, for example, the Java itself will be isolated and the rest of the page won't be affected. The program itself opens within seconds of when you click the icon, too--a distinct advantage over some slower-loading alternatives.

3. You Barely Notice It's There.

Calling the design of Chrome's interface streamlined is an understatement. The program barely looks like a program, and the vast majority of your screen space is devoted to the site you're visiting--with no buttons or logos hogging space. Chrome's designers say that they wanted people to forget they were even using a browser, and it comes pretty close to achieving that goal.

4. Makes Searching Simpler.

One of Chrome's signature features is its Omnibox, an integrated all-purpose bar at the top of the browser. You can type in a URL or a search term--or both--and Chrome takes you to the right place without asking any questions. Omnibox can learn what you like, too--a talent that goes beyond the obvious automatic completion function. Say that you want to use the PCWorld.com search function, for example. Once you've visited the site once, Chrome will remember that PCWorld.com has its own search box and will give you the option of using it right from Omnibox. The function thus automates keyword searches.

5. Gives You More Control Over Tabs.

Chrome gives the idea of tabbed browsing new power. You can grab a tab and drag it out into its own individual window. Or you can drag and drop tabs into existing windows to combine them. Chrome also gives you the option of starting up in any tab configuration you want--whether a custom setup or the set of tabs you had open in your previous session. Other browsers require third-party add-ons to provide this capability.

6. Opens New Doors On Your Home Page.

Chrome comes with a default dynamic home page. As you use it, the program remembers the sites that you visit most often. The top nine of those appear in snapshots on your home page, along with your most commonly used search engines and bookmarks. There's no force-feeding here, though: You can override the dynamic home page with any home page you want, just as you can set the default search engine to any service you prefer.

7. Lets You Stay Incognito.

Like Internet Explorer 8's recent beta release, Chrome offers a private browsing option--one it calls Incognito. You can open a special type of new window and rest easy knowing nothing you do in it will be logged or saved on your computer. And unlike Internet Explorer's, Chrome's Incognito window is isolated from the rest of your browsing experience, so you can have your private window open alongside your regular windows, and each will operate independently.

Story behind the Google Chrome

2008-09-04T04:10:00.000-07:00

Star-war Begins Again : Google Launched Own Browser - "Chrome"

2008-09-03T23:05:00.000-07:00

Google Launched an open source browser called "Chrome" on 2-Sept.In a nut-shell, here’s what the comic announces Google Chrome to be :

* Google Chrome is Google’s open source browser project :- As rumored before under the name of “Google Browser”, this will be based on the existing rendering engine Webkit. Furthermore, it will include Google’s Gears project.

* The browser will include a JavaScript Virtual Machine called V8 :- It is built from scratch by a team in Denmark, and open-sourced as well so other browsers could include it. One aim of V8 was to speed up JavaScript performance in the browser, as it’s such an important component on the web today. Google also say they’re using a “multi-process design” which they say means “a bit more memory up front” but over time also “less memory bloat.” When web pages or plug-ins do use a lot of memory, you can spot them in Chrome’s task manager, “placing blame where blame belongs.”

* Google Chrome will use special tabs :- Instead of traditional tabs like those seen in Firefox, Chrome puts the tab buttons on the upper side of the window, not below the address bar.

* The browser has an address bar with auto-completion features Called ’Omnibox’ :- Google says it offers search suggestions, top pages you’ve visited, pages you didn’t visit but which are popular amd more. The omnibox (“omni” is a prefix meaning “all”, as in “omniscient” – “all-knowing”) also lets you enter e.g. “digital camera” if the title of the page you visited was “Canon Digital Camera”. Additionally, the omnibox lets you search a website of which it captured the search box; you need to type the site’s name into the address bar, like “amazon”, and then hit the tab key and enter your search keywords.

* As a default homepage Chrome presents you with a kind of “Speed Dial” feature :-It is similar to the one of Opera. On that page you will see your most visited webpages as 9 screenshot thumbnails. To the side, you will also see a couple of your recent searches and your recently bookmarked pages, as well as recently closed tabs.

* Chrome has a privacy mode :- Google says you can create an “incognito” window “and nothing that occurs in that window is ever logged on your computer.” The latest version of Internet Explorer calls this InPrivate. Google’s use-case for when you might want to use the “incognito” feature is e.g. to keep a surprise gift a secret. As far as Microsoft’s InPrivate mode is concerned, people also speculated it was a “porn mode.”

* Web apps can be launched in their own browser window without address bar and toolbar :- Mozilla has a project called Prism that aims to do similar (though doing so may train users into accepting non-URL windows as safe or into ignoring the URL, which could increase the effectiveness of phishing attacks).

* To fight malware and phishing attempts :- Chrome is constantly downloading lists of harmful sites. Google also promises that whatever runs in a tab is sandboxed so that it won’t affect your machine and can be safely closed. Plugins the user installed may escape this security model, Google admits.

This looks like a very interesting project, and I think it can’t hurt to have more competition in the browser area. Google is playing this as nicely as possible by open-sourcing things, with perhaps part of the reason to try to defend against monopoly accusations – after all, Google already owns a lot of what’s happening inside the browser, andsome may feel owning a browser too could be a little too much power for a single company (Google could, for instance, release browser features that benefit their sites more than most other sites... as can Microsoft with Internet Explorer). For now, until Chrome is released in a testable version, how much of the speed, stability and user interface promises will be fullfilled – and how much of the interface you’ll be able to configure in case you don’t like it – remains to be seen.

Important PC Repair Safety Tips

2008-09-01T03:39:00.000-07:00

In addition to being an afternoon of great fun, pc repair can save you loads of time and money. No amount of fun, money or time is enough, though, to compromise your safety.

Keep these important tips in mind as you work inside your computer:

Remember to Flip the Switch

Always, always, always remember to turn the power off before servicing anything. This should always be your first step. Do not even open the computer case unless the power is turned off. Many computers have a number of lights inside that serve certain functions so check to see that no lights are on. If any are still on then the power is probably not completely off.

Unplug for Extra Safety

As a second precaution, it is wise to unplug the computer from the wall or power strip. If there was any doubt as to whether the computer was off before, it's settled now.

Avoid Capacitors

Capacitors are miniature electronic components contained in many of the parts inside a PC. Capacitors can store electric charge for a short while after the power is turned off so it's a wise decision to wait a few minutes after pulling the plug before working on your PC.

Never Service the Non-Serviceable

When you come across labels that say "No serviceable components inside" don't take it as a challenge or even a suggestion. This is a serious statement.

Some parts of a computer are just not meant to be repaired, even by most professional computer repair persons. You will usually see this warning on power supply units but you may also see them on monitors, hard drives, optical drives and other dangerous or highly sensitive components.